Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (2024)

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Cozy up with this quick, easy, & tasty one pot spicy coconut red lentil dahl that is made with red lentils, coconut milk, tomatoes, garlic, onion and the perfect blend of Indian spices. It makes a most delicious gluten-free, vegan dish served alongside some basmati rice or naan bread! You can make this easy dal in the Instant Pot pressure cooker or on the stovetop!

Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (1)

Red lentils are a staple in our household and I’m always whipping up some version of a curried dal (dahl or daal)!

Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (2)

And, most of all, it must be spicy! We love our spice.

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Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (4)

Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (5)

You can have this scrumptious, comforting and filling dish on the table in only 40 minutes, and best of all? You only need one pot!

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It’s incredibly versatile and does well served alongside rice, quinoa, millet or any bread of choice. And dare I say that it tastes even better leftover? Yep. The flavors only continue to mature in time. You’ll love it. I promise!

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Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (8)

This Spicy Red Lentil Dahl is:

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Tips for making Spicy Coconut Dal:

  • For a sugar-free version, the coconut sugar can be omitted or replace with a sugar-free sweetener such as this one.

  • The coconut milk adds some great creaminess, but in a pinch, it can be replaced with any dairy or non-dairy milk of choice.

  • The tomatoes can be replaced with two freshly chopped tomatoes for similar results.

  • This recipe is strictly for red lentils. I do not recommend replacing them with any other kind of lentils.

  • Like a lot of spice? Bump the red chili flakes up to 3/4 teaspoon.

  • Not a fan of spicy? Cut down or omit the red chili flakes.

  • Store leftover dhal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

  • This dal tastes great served over rice, quinoa, millet or alongside naan bread.

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Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (11)

More Vegan Indian Dishes You Might Enjoy:

Easy Baked Vegan Gluten-Free Samosas

Sweet Potato And Cauliflower Rice Coconut Curry (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

Coconut Chickpea Curry (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

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This delicious dahl dish is truly a comforting and delicious staple of ours that could not be easier to make! We hope you love it, too. Enjoy. xo.

Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (13)

If you try this recipe please let me know! Leave a comment, rate it, share this post, usePinterest’s“tried it” feature, or take a photo, & tag me onInstagram and I’ll share it! Thank you so much! <3

Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (14)

Spicy Coconut Red Lentil Dal (Instant Pot + Stovetop)

Cozy up with this quick, easy, & tasty one pot spicy coconut red lentil dahl that is made with red lentils, coconut milk, tomatoes, garlic, onion and the perfect blend of Indian spices. It makes a most delicious gluten-free, vegan dish served alongside some basmati rice or naan bread! You can make this easy dal in the Instant Pot pressure cooker or on the stovetop!

4.54 from 80 votes

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Course: Entrées, Instant Pot, Sides

Cuisine: Indian

Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Author: Kristen Wood

Ingredients

  • 2 tbs coconut oil
  • 1 white or yellow onion chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup red lentils dry
  • 3 cups water 2 cups for Instant Pot
  • 1 tbs shredded coconut
  • 1 tbs coconut sugar
  • 1 tbs curry powder
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 400 mL can full fat coconut milk
  • 1 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes
  • to taste sea salt

Instructions

  • Stovetop Method

  • Heat coconut oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

  • Saute onion and garlic for 5 minutes or until onions are clear and beginning to brown on edges.

  • Turn heat to high and add lentils and water.

  • Bring to a boil, cover, reduce to simmer.

  • Simmer for 25-30 minutes or until most of the water is absorbed.

  • Stir in shredded coconut, coconut sugar, spices, coconut milk and tomatoes.

  • Simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes or until desired consistency is achieved.

  • Salt to taste.

  • Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

  • Enjoy!

  • Instant Pot Method

  • Turn on saute function on pressure cooker.

  • Place oil, garlic and onion into pot. Saute for 5 minutes.

  • Press ‘Cancel’.

  • Stir in lentils, 2 cups water, coconut, sugar, spices, and tomatoes (omit the coconut milk!).

  • Secure the lid and set on manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Let the pressure naturally release for 10 more minutes.

  • Release the pressure and remove the lid.

  • Stir in coconut milk. Salt to taste.

  • Serve as is, or if you desire a thicker, creamier dal, press saute and saute until desired consistency. Keep in mind a dal will thicken as it cools.

  • Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Please see the ‘Tips’ section above in the post for more information.

You might also love our Adzuki Bean Coconut Curry, collection of Cheap Vegetarian Meals or Aubergine Curry!

Also see: 35 Best Coconut Milk Recipes.

This is excellent served alongside childa!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 366kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 416mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 8g

Have you tried this recipe?Please Rate + Comment Below!

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Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (2024)

FAQs

What red lentils are gluten-free? ›

Hugely popular and versatile, used in soups, casseroles and curries. A source of minerals. This product is Gluten-free, is Vegan and is Organic.

What to serve with red lentil Dahl? ›

Dahl: The best side dishes to make a meal
  1. Naan bread. We love to eat our hearty dahl for lunch or a light dinner with just Naan bread. ...
  2. Roasted cauliflower. Nothing beats gently spiced and roasted cauliflower served alongside Dahl. ...
  3. Make a veg stew. ...
  4. Stuffed peppers. ...
  5. Bombay potatoes. ...
  6. Onion Bhajis.
Feb 6, 2023

How do you eat Dahl? ›

In Indian households, we eat our dal with roti, rice, or dosa. With the carb component you have a complete protein and an amazing meal at that. I encourage folks that take my classes to think of dal as a side to bread and/or rice or as a soup.

What is Dahl made of? ›

As an ingredient, dal refers to a split version of legumes like lentils, chickpeas, etc. As a recipe, dal is made by simmering together yellow or red split lentils with warming spices and often coconut milk, tomatoes and broth to create a lovely, super-nutritious meal with a stew-like consistency.

Which dals are gluten-free? ›

Dosas ,Idlis,Chillas with moong dal,Adai (mix of lentils and rice),Pesarattu (green moong dals) are all gluten free. No aata or Semolina or sooji or maida for Gluten sensitive people.

Can a person with celiac disease eat lentils? ›

Lentils are naturally gluten-free. They are recommended for people with celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders. However, like oats, they appear to be at a heightened risk of cross contact with gluten-containing grains. This is due in part to farming practices.

What is the difference between lentils and dahl? ›

Though often translated as lentils, dals are actually any split pulses (legumes). A pulse refers to the dry, edible seed of the pod. This includes beans, lentils, peas, and other little seeds in lentils or beans. So, any split legume is considered a dal in Indian culture.

How healthy is red lentil Dahl? ›

Dhal is an excellent source of iron and fibre, and a good source of protein, for vegetarians. Red lentil dahl is full of flavour and this version is also packed with vegetables, making it the perfect healthy comfort food.

What are the pros and cons of red lentils? ›

Eating half a cup of cooked lentils gives you lots of essential nutrients and their high fiber content makes you feel full. However, the fiber in lentils can be hard for your body to break down. Eating too many lentils can cause gas, bloating, and cramping.

Is dahl meant to be spicy? ›

Used as a side dish or a main course, dal is generally not as spicy as a curry but a tastebud treat nonetheless! With almost as many varieties as there are cooks, different dals for different areas, differing textures and delicious flavours, they play a very important role in savoury and sweet dishes alike.

What are the side effects of dahl? ›

While masoor dal is largely beneficial, excessive consumption can lead to some adverse effects: 1. Digestive Issues: Overconsumption of masoor dal can lead to gas, bloating, and indigestion due to its high fiber content. People not used to a high-fiber diet might experience these symptoms more intensely.

Can I eat dahl every day? ›

Yes, You can have dal once per day. You can have as part of lunch. Dals are rich in proteins, Essential amino acid, potassium, Iron, Fiber, and Vitamin B1. Helps to lower cholesterol and control blood sugar levels.

What is dal called in English? ›

Daal are often known as lentils, but actually refers to a split version of a number of lentils, peas, chickpeas, kidney beans etc.

Why does my dahl taste bland? ›

Salt is one of the most important things you must get right when making your daal. People often ask me why their daal doesn't taste as good as it could and it's usually because they didn't add enough salt (or they skip the tarka!

What is dahl in English? ›

Dal (or dahl, or dhal), a dish or preparation of lentils or other pulses.

Are organic red lentils gluten-free? ›

Organic Gluten Free Red Lentils are a good source of protein and are nutritious as well as delicious. Make them into a pilaf using fragrant basmati rice or enjoy them as a flavorful pureed side dish called dahl, as they do in India. Their earthy flavor enhances soups, too.

Are red lentils wheat? ›

Yes, naturally red lentils are gluten-free. But, lentils can be subject to cross-contamination, so check the package to confirm.

Is red lentil penne gluten-free? ›

ev_makes_ I think these noodles are really good for being a gluten-free alternative. I boiled them for 6 minutes in heavily salted water, as opposed to the recommended 7-9.

Does red lentil flour have gluten? ›

So… is lentil flour gluten free? Like the pulse itself, lentil flour is naturally gluten free too, making it an excellent way of baking extra nutrients into your gluten free diet.

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