South Asian Red Lentil Dal with Chili

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Red lentils (masoor dal), rinsed
• 2 cups Water
• 1 tbsp Olive oil (or neutral oil)
• 1/2 medium Onion, finely chopped(optional)
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Fresh ginger, grated
• 1 Green chili (or serrano), finely chopped(optional)
• 1/2 tsp Ground turmeric
• 1 tsp Ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp Ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp Red chili powder(optional)
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice(optional)
• 1 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped (for serving)(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (10 minutes): Rinse the red lentils. Chop the onion (if using), mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and finely chop the chili (if using).

2. 2

   Cook (30 minutes): In a pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add onion (if using) and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, ginger, and chili, cooking 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

3. 3

   Cook (30 minutes): Add turmeric, cumin, coriander, and (if using) red chili powder. Stir for 20–30 seconds, then add lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

4. 4

   Cook (30 minutes): Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are very soft and the dal is thick. Add salt to taste.

5. 5

   Finish: Stir in lemon juice (if using). Serve hot, topped with cilantro (if using).