Sri Lankan Dhal - Family Favourite Instant Pot Recipes!

red lentils

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: split peas

Green lentils offer similar texture and flavor.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: evaporated milk

Almond milk reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

fresh cilantro

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: dried herbs

Parsley provides a similar fresh flavor.

green chili

🥗Healthier: bell pepper

💰Cheaper: jalapeño

Jalapeño adds heat without being overwhelming.

Open the lid of the Instant Pot and set the sauté function.

Add a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil into the pot.

Once the oil has heated, add mustard seeds and fry for 10 seconds until they start to pop.

Add curry leaves for flavor.

Add onions and sauté until they have softened.

Add garlic, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, a pinch of salt, a cinnamon stick, and two whole green chilies; sauté until the onions have softened.

Add red lentils and some water.

Cancel the sauté function, cover the Instant Pot, ensure the vent is closed, and set the pressure cooker function for 5 minutes.

Once the pressure cooking is complete, press the vent release button to release the steam.

After all the steam has been released, remove the lid and add coconut milk.

Stir everything together, season with salt, black pepper, and add chili powder for extra heat.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary