Indian Red Lentil Dal-Style Spicy Stew

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Red lentils (masoor dal), rinsed
• 2 cups Water or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/2 medium Yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Ginger, grated
• 1 tsp Ground turmeric
• 1 tsp Garam masala
• 1/2 tsp Ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp Chili powder or cayenne
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice
• 1 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (10 minutes): Rinse the red lentils. Chop the onion and mince the garlic; grate the ginger.

2. 2

   Cook (30 minutes): In a pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened (about 5 minutes), then stir in garlic and ginger and cook 30 seconds.

3. 3

   Add spices: Stir in turmeric, garam masala, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook 30 seconds to bloom the spices.

4. 4

   Simmer: Add rinsed lentils and water/vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a steady simmer and cook until the lentils are very soft and stew-like (about 20–25 minutes).

5. 5

   Finish: Stir in lemon juice. If too thick, add a splash more water. Garnish with cilantro if using, then serve.