Indian Spiced Lentils: An Easy, Healthy Indian Red Lentil Recipe!

lentils

🥗Healthier: split peas

💰Cheaper: pulses

Split peas are often less expensive and have a similar texture.

oil

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Coconut oil adds flavor but vegetable oil is more budget-friendly.

ginger

🥗Healthier: fresh ginger

💰Cheaper: ground ginger

Ground ginger is more accessible and has a longer shelf life.

cilantro

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: green onions

Parsley can provide a similar fresh flavor.

Heat olive oil in a medium to large saucepan over medium heat.

Add 2 teaspoons of olive oil to the hot pan.

Add 1.5 to 2 cups of thinly sliced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft.

Add a heaping tablespoon (about 4 teaspoons) of fresh grated ginger and 3 to 4 teaspoons of minced garlic; sauté for about 1 minute.

Remove half of the onion mixture and set it aside for later.

Add 3 teaspoons of vegetable seasoning to the pan.

Pour in 3 cups of water (or liquid vegetable seasoning) and stir.

Add one 15.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes with juice to the mixture.

Add 1 cup of dried red lentils, checking for debris and rinsing them beforehand.

Stir in 4 teaspoons of garam masala and 2 teaspoons of ground cumin; mix well.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover with a lid.

Simmer for about 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the lentils are tender, checking occasionally.

After 15 minutes, add salt to taste (about a heaping quarter teaspoon) and stir.

Serve the lentils over rice, quinoa, or couscous, garnished with the reserved onion mixture.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary