Dal or dhal, is a term used in Indian for both the dried, split pulses (like lentils) that do not require pre-soaking and for the dishes prepared out of them. These pulses are among the most important staple foods in South Asian countries, and form an important part of many Indian cuisines.
It took a long time and a lot of tweaking to get this recipe just right. Right for our son Harrison that is… he loved the garlicy restaurant dal… so this is a super garlicy affair.
It’s a very mild simple dal recipe that is children friendly meal, quick to make and super healthy.
Combine it with rice and it forms a complete protein compliment. Combine it with veggie rice and all the healthy bases are covered.
Our Classic Kid Friendly Dal:
Ingredients:
- Red lentils
- Onion
- finely chopped carrots
- oil
- water
Spice Blend:
- 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons ginger powder
- 4 teaspoons garlic powder
- 10 green cardamons
- 2 black cardamons
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
- Salt & Pepper to taste
Method:
- Soak the red lentils for an hour and rinse
- Cook red lentils, bring to boil then simmer for about 20 minutes
- Dry roast spice blend until aromatic and then remove from heat and set aside
- Fry finely chopped onion in a frying pan until browned
- Add spice blend to onion and mix
- Add onion and spice blend to the red lentils
- Add finely chopped carrot to red lentils
- Simmer until carrots are cooked
- If the turmeric flavour is too strong, or the mix is a little bitter… add some coconut cream
- Serve with veggie rice and enjoy
Enjoying Curry Night With Family: Heloise outdoor dinning with her Brother and family. All the kids (ages 5, 9 and 11) enjoyed this Curry medley of Chickpea Masala , Kid Friendly Dal, Cauliflower Rub, Classic Veggie Rice and a few cheeky beers… only for the adults of course!
