Name: One-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 cup (190 g) dry green lentils; 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable broth; 1 cup (240 ml) canned coconut milk; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 large carrot (200 g), finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 red or green chili pepper, seeds removed; 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp curry powder; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 tsp ground coriander; Salt and black pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 43 reviews

If you’ve been craving a wholesome, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor yet easy to whip up, this One-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s a cozy bowl of green lentils simmered in a fragrant blend of spices, coconut milk, and fresh aromatics, all cooked in a single pot for effortless cleanup. The magic here is how simple ingredients come together to create something deeply satisfying, warm, and vibrant enough to brighten any mealtime. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this One-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe delivers pure, delicious comfort with every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Several small white bowls and one white handled pot are arranged on a white marbled surface. The top left bowl holds green lentils, a round plate near the top center shows four spices in small heaps: yellow curry powder, brown coriander, dark brown cumin, and orange turmeric. A single red chili pepper rests next to the plate. Below the lentils, a small bowl contains a dark liquid labeled coconut oil. To its right, a white handled pot is filled with chopped onions. Below the pot, a scalloped bowl holds chopped orange carrots. Near the bottom, a tiny bowl has minced garlic, and next to it, a small pink bowl holds grated ginger. In the middle right, a grey bowl contains amber-colored veggie broth. Below that, a white bowl shows white coconut milk. Finally, a small blue bowl contains salt and pepper. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things straightforward, using staple pantry items and fresh produce that each play a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color. Every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to contribute layers of warmth, creaminess, and a slight kick of spice that keeps your taste buds engaged.

Green lentils (1 cup/190 g): These are hearty and hold their shape beautifully, lending the dish its signature texture.
Coconut oil or vegetable oil (1 tbsp): Helps to soften the onions and bloom the spices, adding richness.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): Brings natural sweetness and depth to the dal base.
Carrot (1 large, finely diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and a lovely pop of orange color.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Introduces warm, pungent notes that elevate the dish.
Fresh ginger (2 tsp, grated): Offers zesty brightness and a gentle heat.
Red or green chili pepper (1, seeds removed): Provides a mild kick without overpowering the flavors.
Ground cumin (2 tsp): Contributes an earthy, slightly nutty flavor that’s essential in dal.
Curry powder (2 tsp): A fragrant mix of spices that brings complexity and warmth.
Ground turmeric (1 tsp): Infuses a gorgeous golden hue and subtle earthiness.
Ground coriander (1 tsp): Adds a light citrus undertone, brightening the spice mix.
Vegetable broth (3 cups/720 ml): The flavorful liquid base that helps the lentils cook perfectly.
Canned coconut milk (1 cup/240 ml): Makes the dal luxuriously creamy and smooth without dairy.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): The final touch to bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.

How to Make One-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Lentils and Veggies

Begin by sorting through your green lentils, picking out any shriveled or debris, then rinse them thoroughly under cold water. To make them even easier to digest and speed up cooking, soak the lentils in lukewarm water for about 15 minutes, then drain. While they soak, finely dice your carrot, onion, chili, and mince the garlic. Grate fresh ginger to get that burst of warmth ready for the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat your chosen oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium heat. As soon as it shimmers, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Now add the minced garlic, grated ginger, diced carrot, and the chili pepper. Stir everything together while reducing the heat slightly to low so the vegetables gently soften without browning too much. This step releases all those wonderful aromas that form the flavor foundation of your dal.

Step 3: Add Spices, Lentils, and Broth

Time to spice things up! Sprinkle in the cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and ground coriander, stirring well to coat the vegetables and infuse the oil with deep fragrance. Add the soaked and drained lentils to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Bring everything up to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to let it simmer gently. Let this simmer for around 15 minutes. This stage is where the lentils start to soften and the flavors begin melding into something wonderful.

Step 4: Temper Spices for Extra Flavor (Optional but Recommended)

If you want to take this One-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe from good to unforgettable, try tempering a little extra oil with the spices in a small pan before adding them to the lentils and broth. Heat oil over medium, add cumin and turmeric, and cook for a minute until fragrant and slightly deepened in color. Pour this sizzling spice oil directly into your dal pot to enhance its depth and aroma.

Step 5: Stir in Coconut Milk and Thicken

Pour in the creamy canned coconut milk and stir gently to combine. Continue cooking the dal for another 10 to 15 minutes so the lentils become tender and the mixture thickens to a luscious consistency. If you want a smoother texture, you can puree about a quarter to a third of the dal with an immersion blender before stirring it back in. This Creaminess pairs beautifully with the natural heartiness of the lentils.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Before you dish up, taste your dal and season it with salt and black pepper as you prefer. This final adjustment lets all the flavors balance perfectly, making sure the dish sings with warmth and richness.

How to Serve One-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe

The image shows a white pan filled with a thick lentil stew that has a creamy yellow base with scattered small green lentils and soft orange carrot pieces mixed throughout. A wooden spoon is resting inside the pan, partially submerged in the stew. On the top right, there are two round golden-brown flatbreads on a white plate with a blue rim. Around the pan, there are a few lime wedges, some fresh green herbs in a small blue bowl, and pieces of fresh ginger. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface with a pale pink cloth draped on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you get to personalize your dal experience. Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro adds a fresh herbal kick. A dollop of non-dairy yogurt brings cooling creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the spices. If you want a zesty touch, a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon just before serving will brighten the flavors and add a lovely tang.

Side Dishes

This One-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe pairs wonderfully with traditional Indian staples like steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread, perfect for scooping up every delicious bite. For a wholesome, balanced meal, serve it alongside roasted or sautéed greens, such as spinach or kale. A simple cucumber and tomato salad can add a crisp freshness that complements the dal’s creamy texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the dal in rustic bowls topped with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for extra texture and nuttiness. For a festive occasion, layer it over a bed of fragrant lemon rice and garnish with thinly sliced red onions and fresh herbs for a vibrant presentation. You can even turn leftovers into a filling for wraps or stuffed peppers, making this versatile dish even more exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover dal stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the dal taste even better the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating, as it tends to thicken when chilled.

Freezing

You can freeze this One-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe without worry. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently on the stove to maintain its creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat your dal over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it’s become too thick, simply add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up. Microwave reheating works as well—just pause to stir every minute or so for even heating and the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use brown lentils instead of green lentils?

Absolutely! Brown lentils are a great substitute and will yield a similar hearty texture. Just keep in mind they might break down slightly more during cooking, resulting in a softer dal.

Is this dal dish vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, the One-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, especially when using gluten-free vegetable broth and breads or rice as sides.

What can I do if I don’t have coconut milk?

If you’re out of coconut milk, feel free to substitute plant-based creams like soy, oat, or cashew cream. The flavor may differ slightly but will still deliver rich creaminess to the dal.

How spicy is this dal and can I adjust the heat?

The heat level is mild and friendly thanks to the single chili, which you can remove completely or swap for a milder pepper if desired. To ramp up the spice, add extra fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I make this dal in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Start by sautéing the aromatics and spices on the stove, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Add soaked lentils, broth, and coconut milk, and cook on low for about 4-5 hours until lentils are tender.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Green Lentil Dal Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a hearty hug in a bowl that you won’t want to miss. It’s simple to prepare, forgiving in the kitchen, and infinitely adaptable, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming a beloved staple in your dinner rotation too!