Save A vibrant, nourishing dhal featuring tender cauliflower and red cabbage simmered in a creamy coconut sauce, spiced with warming Indian flavors. Perfect for a cozy vegetarian meal.
I first made this dhal on a rainy weekend, and the fragrant spices filled my kitchen with warmth. It quickly became a favorite for simple, satisfying dinners.
Ingredients
- Cauliflower: 1 small head, cut into florets
- Red cabbage: ½ medium, thinly sliced (about 300 g)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
- Tomato: 1 medium, chopped
- Red lentils: 200 g (1 cup), rinsed
- Coconut milk: 400 ml (1 can)
- Vegetable stock or water: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Ground cumin: 1½ tsp
- Ground coriander: 1½ tsp
- Turmeric: 1 tsp
- Garam masala: 1 tsp
- Chili flakes (optional): ½ tsp
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves: Chopped, for garnish
- Lemon or lime wedges: For serving
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then sauté the onion for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic & Ginger:
- Add the garlic and ginger, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast Spices:
- Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes, then toast for 30 seconds.
- Add Tomato:
- Add the chopped tomato and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Mix Lentils & Liquids:
- Stir in the red lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable stock. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Cauliflower:
- Add the cauliflower florets. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add Red Cabbage:
- Add the sliced red cabbage, stir, and simmer uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Finish Seasoning:
- Stir in the garam masala, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer 2 more minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, topped with cilantro and a squeeze of lemon or lime.
Save This dhal was a hit for my family, with everyone adding their favorite toppings and going back for seconds.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven, chopping board, knife, wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains coconut. Gluten-free. Always check product labels if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~320, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 11 g (per serving)
Save This cozy dhal is a great centerpiece for a weeknight meal and leftovers taste even better the next day!
Recipe Help
- → What spices are used to flavor this dish?
The dish features cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and optional chili flakes to provide warmth and depth.
- → Can I substitute vegetables in this dhal?
Yes, green cabbage can replace red cabbage, and you may add extra vegetables like spinach or peas for variety.
- → How long does it take to cook the dhal?
After preparation, simmering takes about 35 minutes until lentils and vegetables are tender.
- → What garnishes complement the flavors best?
Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon or lime brighten the dish and add fresh, zesty notes.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets?
Yes, it uses plant-based ingredients and is gluten-free, but check the labels of stock and coconut milk to be sure.