Spicy, warming dal is often found as a starter at many of the UK’s Indian restaurants, but given that it’s cheap and easy to make at home why not give it a try?
A big tub will last for days and can be served at lunch, dinner – or even breakfast! Try it with some bread, rice, poppadoms or a fried egg for a tasty treat.
Ingredients
- 400g yellow lentils
- 1 tbsp turmeric
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tsp chilli flakes
- Salt (optional)
Method
- Put the lentils in a sieve and give a quick rinse under the cold tap. Place in a large saucepan and add a litre and half of water and bring to the boil.
- Skim off any froth that’s covering the liquid and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the turmeric and leave to gently cook until tender – usually around 30 minutes.
- In a frying pan warm the cooking oil over a medium heat, then add your sliced onion and cook until soft.
- When your onions are ready add the cumin, garlic and chilli to the pan and gently fry for four-five minutes taking care not to burn the spices or garlic.
- When your lentils are ready, stir in the onion and spice mixture and combine so that the flavours fully blend. At this point you can add a teaspoon of salt if you like.
- Serve hot in bowls on it’s own or with your favourite accompaniment.
