Spinach and Tomato Dal (Indian Lentil Soup)

Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 90 min
Servings: 4
Yield: 4 servings

Description

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

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
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
water, as needed

Directions

1 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.
2 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.
3 Stir cooked lentils and cilantro into spinach mixture; bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes. Taste; adjust salt and water according to preferences.