Black Lentil Dahl Recipe Vegan: Easy & Flavorful Dish

If you’re searching for a hearty, nutritious, and utterly delicious vegan meal, look no further than this black lentil dahl recipe. Dahl, a classic Indian lentil stew, is renowned for its comforting warmth, fragrant spices, and rich texture.

Using black lentils, also known as beluga lentils, adds a lovely depth of flavor and a satisfying bite to the dish. These tiny lentils hold their shape well, making the dahl not only visually appealing but also wonderfully textured.

This vegan version is thoughtfully crafted to maximize flavor without any animal products. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and a medley of spices that awaken your taste buds.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Cozy up with a bowl of this dahl and enjoy a wholesome meal that’s as vibrant as it is nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This black lentil dahl is a perfect blend of nutrition and flavor, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a plant-based meal that doesn’t skimp on taste or satisfaction. The black lentils provide a robust, earthy base that pairs beautifully with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it stores well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day.

This dahl is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with protein, making it ideal for a variety of dietary needs.

If you enjoy dishes with a little heat, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your palate. And for those looking to explore more vegan recipes, you might enjoy my Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or Collard Green Casserole Recipes for more wholesome inspiration.

Ingredients

• 1 cup black beluga lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 tbsp coconut oil or any neutral oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth or water
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Grater for ginger
• Ladle for serving
• Fine mesh sieve or colander (for rinsing lentils)

Instructions

1. Prepare the lentils: Rinse the black lentils thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh sieve. Set aside to drain.
2. Heat the oil: In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them sizzle and pop for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion, and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies (if using), cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add spices: Sprinkle in the turmeric, ground coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to toast the spices, making sure they don’t burn.
5. Add tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Cook the lentils: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and stir to combine with the tomato-spice mixture.
7. Add broth: Pour in the vegetable broth or water. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
8. Simmer: Let the dahl simmer gently for 35-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Add more water or broth as needed if the dahl becomes too thick.
9. Season and finish: Once the lentils are cooked, add salt to taste and stir in the fresh lemon juice.
10. Garnish and serve: Ladle the dahl into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or your favorite flatbread.

Tips & Variations

“For a creamier dahl, stir in a splash of coconut milk right before serving.”

Soaking lentils: Although black lentils don’t require soaking, soaking them for 1-2 hours can reduce cooking time.

Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a smoky heat boost.

Vegetable additions: Toss in chopped spinach, kale, or diced carrots during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.

Make it a meal: Serve your black lentil dahl with warm, fluffy basmati rice or try it alongside some homemade Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a fusion twist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This black lentil dahl shines when served with simple, complementary dishes. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

• Steamed basmati rice or jasmine rice for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Warm naan bread or chapati to scoop up the dahl.
• Fresh cucumber raita made with vegan yogurt to cool the palate.
• A side of sautéed or roasted vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or eggplant.
• For a fun dessert afterward, try the indulgent Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.

Conclusion

Black lentil dahl is a nourishing, flavorful dish that fits perfectly into a vegan lifestyle. It’s both comforting and vibrant, showcasing the magic of simple ingredients transformed by spices and slow cooking.

The recipe is flexible, allowing you to adjust the spice level and add vegetables according to your preference. It’s also an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a wholesome option for any meal.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dahl will not disappoint. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to check out my other favorites like the Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for a sweet treat or the Chicken Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes for some savory inspiration.

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