Vegan Dal | Hidden Veg Red Lentil Dal Recipe

Name: Vegan Dal | Hidden Veg Red Lentil Dal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups red lentils, washed and soaked for 2 hours (if time allows); 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 liter filtered water; 1 bay leaf; 1/2 red onion, sliced; 2 tablespoons cumin seeds; 6 curry leaves; 1 eggplant, pierced and stuffed with 4-6 peeled garlic cloves then roasted for 1-1 1/2 hours; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon garam masala

Servings: persons

1
Tip lentils into a medium saucepan. Cover with the water and add turmeric and bay leaf. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the water has reduced and the lentils are soft.
2
After roasting the eggplant, remove its skin and mash the flesh in a bowl, ensuring the garlic is mashed and mixed well. Set aside.
3
Heat some oil in a pan over a medium heat. Add the onion and allow it to caramelise, about 10 minutes. Add the cumin seeds and cook for a further 2-3 minutes until fragrant then add curry leaves and stir for 1 minute.
4
Tip the onion mix into the saucepan of red lentils and stir. Add mashed eggplant, salt and garam masala and cook for a further 10 minutes. Season further if required.
5
Serve with brown rice, fresh herbs and tamarind chutney.

158

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 1/2 cups red lentils, washed and soaked for 2 hours (if time allows), 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1 liter filtered water, 1 bay leaf, and more.

Yes, Vegan Dal | Hidden Veg Red Lentil Dal falls under the Vegetarian category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Vegan Dal | Hidden Veg Red Lentil Dal

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions