Spinach and Tomato Dal (Indian Lentil Soup)
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.
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.
RECIPE REVIEWS
Avarage Rating:
4.6/ 5 ( 27 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (7)
Gabrielle Boyle
May 20, 2025My go-to weeknight dinner recipe. Quick, healthy, and tasty!
Claude Cronin
May 18, 2025I used coconut milk instead of water for a creamier version, and it was amazing!
Caesar Donnelly
Apr 28, 2025This recipe is so easy to follow, and the dal turned out delicious! My family loved it.
Jerel Stehr
Oct 23, 2024I'm not a big fan of lentils, but this recipe has changed my mind!
Amiya Klocko
Aug 7, 2024This is a great vegetarian option for a hearty and filling meal.
Julie Jerde
Aug 2, 2024Super simple and flavorful. Will definitely make again!
Salvador Kertzmann
Jul 16, 2024I added a little ginger and it gave it a lovely warmth.