Main dishes

Lentil and zucchini dhal

30 min Cook
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Lentil and zucchini lentil

Here’s a meal that manages to be both nourishing and comforting without demanding hours of your time. This lentil and zucchini dhal, served over a steaming bed of fragrant basmati rice, is like a warm hug in a bowl.

What is dhal?

Originating from the Indian subcontinent, dhal (or dal) is a beautifully versatile dish traditionally made from split pulses, lentils, or peas that are slow-simmered with aromatic spices until they break down into a rich, velvety stew. While classic versions often use red or yellow lentils, this recipe puts a modern, texturally delightful twist on the staple by utilizing nutty Puy lentils alongside diced zucchini.

It is the ultimate definition of simple, comforting food: humble ingredients transformed by a handful of spices into a deeply satisfying meal.

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Lentil and zucchini dhal

Lentil and zucchini dhal

corinthian
This dhal is the lazy meal by definition: all you have to do is putting everything in the pot allow it to stew. With a few simple ingredients, this dhal brings a lot of flavor to the plate.
prep time
5 min
cooking time
30 min
servings
4
total time
35 minutes

Equipment

  • Rice cooker

  • Casserole or stew pot

  • Knife

  • Chopping board

  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup of Basmati rice

  • 1/2 cup dried Puy lentils

  • 1 can of crushed tomatoes

  • 1 large zucchini

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

  • 1 teaspoon Harissa paste

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander

  • 1 teaspoon ground Turmeric

  • 1 tablespoon curry (Garam Masala)

  • 1 pasted garlic clove

  • 1 pinch cinnamon powder (optional)

  • 1/2 can coconut milk

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, to garnish

Instructions

1

Cook the rice

Rinse the rice under running water in a strainer. Put it in the rice cooker, cover with water and cook until fluffy and soft.
2

Prepare the curry

Rinse the zucchini, chop off the ends and discard them. Dice it into small cubes. Heat the olive oil in the casserole over medium heat, add the garlic, ginger, Harissa paste, tomato sauce, and the ground spices. Stir until you form a paste. When the scent of the spices is released in the air, add the coconut milk and stir to mix with the spices. Add the zucchini, the lentils, and 25 ml water. Adjust with salt and pepper, then add the crushed tomatoes. Stir again, then cover with a lid and continue to cook for 30 minutes, stirring from time to time.
3

Compose the dish and serve

When the curry is thick and the lentils are soft, take off the heat and drizzle with the lime juice. Transfer the cooked rice to the serving bowls, top with the dhal, and sprinkle generously with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

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