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

Home » Vegan Recipes » Spicy Coconut Red Lentil Dal Recipe (Instant Pot + Stovetop)

ByKristen Wood Last updated

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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)

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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:

  • Super easy to make.

  • Hearty and filling.

  • Healthy and nutritious.

  • Truly creamy and comforting.

  • Filled with the perfect blend of spices for an amazing flavor profile.

  • Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, nut-free, refined sugar-free.

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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.

Spicy Dal Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free) (10)

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

Can celiacs eat dahl? ›

Lentils are naturally gluten-free. They are recommended for people with celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders.

What is dal spice blend? ›

Spice Mix Ingredients: salt, turmeric, black mustard seeds, garam masala (includes coriander seeds, cardamom, fenugreek seeds, poppy seeds, ginger), cumin seeds, black pepper, paprika, cinnamon, cloves.

What to serve with lentil dahl for dinner? ›

My favorite way to serve this red lentil dahl is over basmati or jasmine rice. You can also enjoy it as is, over steamed potatoes. I also like to to put a little dollop of unsweetened coconut yogurt, cilantro and red pepper flakes on top.

How to 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.

Why are lentils not gluten-free? ›

Yes, generally lentils are safe to eat for people who are sensitive to gluten, as lentils are naturally gluten-free. There may be some traces from cross-contamination, but if you are someone who can eat food with only traces of gluten without any problems, all types of lentils should be fine for you to eat.

Which dal is not gluten-free? ›

All Indian foods which do not include wheat ,oats,barley,rye and triticale are all gluten free. Anything made with rice ,millets (bajra,chulai,ragi),besan and any kind of lentils(dal) are all gluten free.

What is the Indian spice that makes it spicy? ›

Various staples in Indian cuisine can make it spicy, such as:
  1. Pungent Green Chilies. Chillies are well-known for their hot flavour and pungency. ...
  2. Ginger-Garlic Paste Integral to Most Dishes. ...
  3. Red Onions for Their Strong Taste. ...
  4. Red Chili Powder for Its Fiery Color.
Jun 16, 2022

Which spice is called Queen of spices? ›

Cardamom contains many medicinal properties and provides great taste and fragrance when added to refreshing drinks. Therefore, it is regarded as the "Queen of Spices". Q. Why cardamom is called the 'Queen of Spices'.

What spice makes Indian food spicier? ›

Turmeric gives bright yellowish-orange color to curries, while red chili peppers add a spicy kick to your favorite dishes. Mustard seeds, black pepper, and asafoetida or heeng also help lend their signature tastes to quite a few classical preparations like dal tadka or sambhar.

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 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.

Why is Dahl so good for you? ›

Whole moong dal is a protein-bound sprout packed with dense nutrients, such as magnesium, copper, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, folate, and zinc and an excellent protein and dietary fibre source. It also aids in lowering cholesterol levels, reducing heart disease risk and regulating blood sugar levels.

What vegetable goes with dahl? ›

When it comes to what goes with dal, roasted vegetables are always a great choice for a side dish! You can use any veggies you prefer or have on hand, but this recipe uses sweet and regular potato, zucchini, eggplant, garlic, tomato, green beans, and onions for a varied and delicious taste.

What are the side effects of dahl? ›

Masoor dal is high in fibre, so eating it can sometimes cause gas problems. Doctors advise that consuming too much can lead to acidity problems. Also, these pulses are high in protein. So if it is added to the diet in excess, there is a risk of weight gain and excess fat in the body.

How do you enhance the taste of dhal? ›

To enhance the taste of dal, prepare a tempering with garlic and mustard oil. Garlic has a strong smell which becomes more intense after roasting in mustard oil and increases the flavour of the dal.

Are lentils ok for celiacs? ›

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.

Can celiacs eat Indian food? ›

Some Indian restaurants carry their own specific gluten-free menu or items labeled gluten-free on their regular menu. If you do not see anything labeled gluten-free, do not assume they don't have any options as many Indian dishes are inherently gluten-free.

Does dal contain gluten? ›

Dal in its pure form is a gluten-free legume or pulse, making it a safe and nutritious option for those on a gluten-free diet.

Is Dahl flour gluten-free? ›

Used extensively in Indian cooking, Chickpea Flour (also known as Besan or Gram Dahl Flour) can be used as part of a gluten-free mix for baking, as a binder for veggie burgers and fritters as well as a thickener for soups.

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