Spinach and Tomato Dal (Indian Lentil Soup)

This red lentil, spinach, and tomato dal (Indian lentil soup) recipe makes a hearty and healthy dish that leaves you satisfied without overfilling you.

Spinach and Tomato Dal (Indian Lentil Soup)

Course: CuisineCuisine: Indian
Prep Time

20 mins

Cook Time

1

minute
Total Time

1

minute
Servings

4

Ingredients

  • 4 cups — water

  • 1 cup — red lentils

  • 1 teaspoon — salt, plus more for seasoning

  • 3 tablespoons — vegetable oil

  • 1 teaspoon — mustard seeds

  • 1 teaspoon — cumin seeds

  • 1 — onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves — garlic, minced

  • 1 pinch — ground turmeric

  • 1 bunch — spinach, chopped

  • 1 large — plum tomato, chopped

  • ½ teaspoon — cayenne pepper

  • ¼ cup — chopped fresh cilantro

  • undefined — water, as needed

Directions

  • Bring 4 cups water and lentils to a boil in a saucepan; stir in salt. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer 10 minutes. Skim off any foam that forms; continue to simmer until lentils are tender, about 1 hour.
  • Heat oil in a separate saucepan. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds; cook until they start to splatter, 2 to 3 minutes. Add onion, garlic, and turmeric; cook and stir until onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in spinach, tomato, and cayenne pepper; cook until spinach wilts and tomato is tender, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir cooked lentils and cilantro into spinach mixture; bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes. Adjust salt and water to taste and texture preferences.

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