Today, we’re exploring the delightful world of Red Lentil Dahl accompanied by Crispy Chickpeas. Dahl, a staple dish in Indian cuisine, is beloved for its rich flavours, simplicity, and the comforting warmth it offers with every spoonful. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body with a plethora of health benefits.

What is Red Lentil Dahl?

Dahl (or Dal) refers to both the ingredient (lentils) and the dish itself in various parts of South Asia. It’s a versatile dish that can be made with various lentils, spices, and additional ingredients, adapting to seasonal changes and regional tastes. Our version captures the essence of traditional dahl while incorporating a modern twist with the addition of crispy chickpeas, offering a delightful contrast in textures.

Red Lentil Dahl Is Good For You!

This Red Lentil Dahl is pack full of lentils. Lentils are a fantastic source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. They are also rich in dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. The spices, including curry powder and garam masala, are packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Adding spinach to the dahl introduces iron, vitamin K, and more fibre, making this dish a powerhouse of nutrients. The crispy chickpeas add a crunchy texture and are a great source of protein and fibre, making this dish balanced and satisfying.

The Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Red Lentil Dahl (per serving): Approximately 350 kcal, 18 g protein, 55 g carbohydrates, 15 g fiber, 4 g fat.
• Crispy Chickpeas (per serving): Roughly 120 kcal, 6 g protein, 20 g carbohydrates, 6 g fiber, 3 g fat.

Ingredients

For the Red Lentil Dahl:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 2 tbsp tomato puree
• 1 can chopped tomatoes (400g)
• 300ml vegetable stock
• 1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 250g red lentils, rinsed
• 2 large handfuls of washed spinach
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp oil, for cooking

For the chickpeas

• 1 can chickpeas (400g), drained, rinsed, and dried
• 1 tbsp oil
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic granules

To Serve:

• Cooked rice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Red Lentil Dahl:
   1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
   2. Stir in the curry powder and tomato puree. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
   3. Add the chopped tomatoes, vegetable stock, sugar, and bring to a simmer. Stir in the red lentils.
   4. Cover and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are soft and the dahl has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the dahl is too thick, add a little more stock or water.
   5. Stir in the garam masala, turmeric and spinach. Cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and lemon juice to taste.
2. Make the Crispy Chickpeas:
   1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the chickpeas with oil, salt, garam masala, smoked paprika, and garlic granules.
   2. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through cooking.
3. Serve:
   • Ladle the red lentil dahl over cooked rice, top with crispy chickpeas, and garnish with fresh coriander.

Recipe Tips For Red Lentil Dahl!

• This red lentil dahl and crispy chickpeas combo is incredibly versatile. Serve it over rice for a traditional touch, or wrap it in a tortilla with some fresh veggies for an Indian-inspired burrito. You can also enjoy it as a hearty soup with a side of crusty bread.
• Lentils: No need to soak red lentils, but rinse them well to remove any impurities.
• Spices: Adjust the spice levels to your preference. Feel free to experiment with different spices.
• Consistency: If the dahl thickens too much upon standing, simply add a bit of water or vegetable stock when reheating.

Bringing It All Together

In the spirit of The Happy Diet, this Red Lentil Dahl with Crispy Chickpeas recipe is all about embracing the joy of cooking with simple, nutritious ingredients. It’s a dish that proves wholesome food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on this delicious journey together. Here’s to cooking meals that are as good for the body as they are for the soul!

Comment, Like and Share!

The joy of cooking is best when shared. Invite your loved ones to experience the magic of plant-based dining with you. Share this recipe with a friend, family member, or colleague who appreciates the art of delicious and healthy eating. Together, let’s spread the warmth and wellness that this dish brings.

Now, we’d love to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe, or do you plan to? Do you have any personal twists or pairings? Share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas in the comments below. Your culinary journey is part of our ongoing conversation, and I can’t wait to read your delicious insights!

Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with me through social media using the hashtag #TheHappyDiet and #EatSmileInspire, and stay tuned for more delightful recipes from around the globe!

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