Spinach and Tomato Dal (Indian Lentil Soup)

Spinach and Tomato Dal (Indian Lentil Soup)
  • PREP TIME
    20 mins
  • COOK TIME
    1 hrs 30 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    1 hrs 50 mins
  • SERVING
    4 People
  • VIEWS
    82

Embark on a culinary journey to India with this heartwarming and nourishing Spinach and Tomato Dal. This vibrant lentil soup, a symphony of earthy lentils, sweet tomatoes, and verdant spinach, is a comforting hug in a bowl. Perfect as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this dal is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    36 g
  • Fiber
    13 g
  • Protein
    15 g
  • Saturated Fat
    2 g
  • Sodium
    666 mg
  • Sugar
    6 g
  • Fat
    12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of water and 1 cup of red lentils. Bring to a boil, then stir in 1 teaspoon of salt. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for approximately 10 minutes. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.

02

Step

Continue simmering until the lentils are tender, which should take about 1 hour.

03

Step

While the lentils are simmering, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a separate saucepan. Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds. Cook until they start to crackle and release their aroma, about 2 to 3 minutes.

04

Step

Add 1 chopped onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and a pinch of ground turmeric to the saucepan. Cook and stir until the onion softens and turns translucent, approximately 5 minutes.

05

Step

Stir in 1 chopped bunch of spinach, 1 chopped large plum tomato, and 0.5 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cook until the spinach wilts and the tomato becomes tender, about 5 minutes.

06

Step

Pour the cooked lentils and 0.25 cup of chopped fresh cilantro into the spinach mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

07

Step

Taste the dal and adjust the seasoning with salt and water according to your preference. The consistency should be thick but still pourable.

For a richer flavor, consider using ghee (clarified butter) instead of vegetable oil.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as cauliflower, eggplant, or potatoes.
A squeeze of lemon or lime juice at the end will brighten the flavors of the dal.
Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or naan bread.

Alexane Dare

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.6/ 5 ( 27 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (7)
  • Gabrielle Boyle

    My go-to weeknight dinner recipe. Quick, healthy, and tasty!

  • Claude Cronin

    I used coconut milk instead of water for a creamier version, and it was amazing!

  • Caesar Donnelly

    This recipe is so easy to follow, and the dal turned out delicious! My family loved it.

  • Jerel Stehr

    I'm not a big fan of lentils, but this recipe has changed my mind!

  • Amiya Klocko

    This is a great vegetarian option for a hearty and filling meal.

  • Julie Jerde

    Super simple and flavorful. Will definitely make again!

  • Salvador Kertzmann

    I added a little ginger and it gave it a lovely warmth.

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