1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal

Lila Mama
Posted on September 24, 2025
September 28, 2025
by

Dear friend, today we embark on a nurturing journey into the warmth and comfort of a beautiful dish-1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal. Imagine coming home to a gentle embrace, where nourishing aromas fill the air. This delightful Dal not only soothes the spirit but also nourishes the body with wholesome ingredients, perfect for those new to cooking. Let Mama Lila guide you, step by step, towards crafting this simple yet enchanting meal that cradles you in its goodness.

Why This 1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal Brings Comfort and Nourishment

This precious recipe is a gentle hug on a rainy day, the kind that wraps you in love and warmth. The green lentils, rich in protein and fiber, work together with the vibrant spices and fresh ingredients to create a balanced dish that delights your senses. Each bite sings of tradition, offering comfort with every nourishing spoonful. Our lentils, along with the herbs and spices, have a special way of enhancing your well-being, inviting peace and balance into your life.

1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal

Step By Step How to Prepare 1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal

  1. Rinse the green lentils under running water until the water runs clear. This simple step cleanses the lentils of any dust, preparing them for their transformation in this delightful dish.
  2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. As the oil warms, it invites a gentle simmer, readying to embrace the spices.
  3. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle, filling your kitchen with a heady aroma. This moment is like a gentle signal that your dish is coming to life.
  4. Add onions, garlic, and ginger, sautƩing until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This trio is the heart of our Dal, bringing depth and warmth to each bowl.
  5. Stir in chopped tomatoes and let them soften, their sweetness harmonizing with the spices. This vibrant addition not only enhances flavor but also adds a burst of color to our meal.
  6. Add turmeric, garam masala, and salt; mix well. This colorful combination brings health benefits and comfort, creating a symphony of flavors that dance together.
  7. Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth, stirring to combine everything into a cozy mixture. This is where all the ingredients find their peace and purpose.
  8. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are soft. During this time, take a moment to breathe deeply, feeling gratitude for the nourishing meal you are creating.
  9. Adjust seasoning, if needed, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. This final touch will add a burst of freshness, bringing your dish to life.

Wholesome Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1 cup green lentils
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or other cooking oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

How to Serve 1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal with Intention

As you ladle the warm Dal into bowls, take a moment to connect with this nourishing food. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or warm naan, inviting loved ones to gather around the table. Each serving is a sharing of love and care, offering comfort to those who partake in its nourishment.

Serve with Intention

Complement this dish with a side of seasonal greens, a bowl of warm grains, or even a calming cup of herbal tea. Slow down, savor each bite, and share the moment with someone you love. Food always feels more nourishing when it’s enjoyed with gratitude and good company.

delicious 1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal

How to Store 1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal the Right Way

To lovingly store your Dal, allow it to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container, and it will remain a cherished meal in your fridge for up to four days. You may also choose to freeze portions for a cozy, last-minute dinner on another day.

Mama Lila’s Helpful Tips

  • If you desire a creamier Dal, stir in a few spoonfuls of coconut milk or yogurt at the end of cooking.
  • Feel free to add a handful of leafy greens toward the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
  • The spices can be adjusted to your taste more turmeric for earthiness, or a pinch of chili for a little warmth.

Peaceful Variations to Explore

  • Vegetable Dal: Add seasonal vegetables like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance color and nutrients.
  • Spicy Dal: For adventurers in flavor, add a chopped green chili while sautĆ©ing the onions.
  • Coconut Dal: Cook with coconut milk instead of all the broth for a rich, tropical twist.

Find Your Own Balance

Experiment with local, seasonal produce or explore gentle spices to craft a version that feels true to you. Cooking with mindfulness turns each step into a chance to connect with your ingredients and discover fresh ways to nourish both yourself and those you love, one thoughtful bite at a time.

Discover More Nourishing Recipes

Head over to our Recipe Trends page and uncover a world of fresh, plant-forward ideas that fit right into your daily routine. From vibrant seasonal flavors to calming, wholesome dishes, each recipe is designed to spark inspiration and bring a sense of balance to your kitchen. Find comfort, joy, and connection in every meal while exploring what’s trending right now.

1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal

A comforting and nourishing 1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal, rich in protein and flavor, perfect for any day.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Vegan
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Lentil Mixture
  • 1 cup green lentils Rinsed and cleaned
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
Vegetables and Aromatics
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
Spices
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
Cooking Oil
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or other cooking oil
Garnish
  • Fresh cilantro For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the green lentils under running water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat.
SautƩing Spices and Aromatics
  1. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
  2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger, sautƩing until the onions become translucent.
  3. Stir in chopped tomatoes and let soften.
Cooking the Dal
  1. Add turmeric, garam masala, and salt; mix well.
  2. Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes.
  4. Adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 400mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5g

Notes

To enhance creaminess, stir in coconut milk or yogurt at the end of cooking. Adjust spices to taste.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Common Questions About 1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal


Can I use another type of lentil?

Absolutely! While green lentils lend the best texture, you can use brown or red lentils it will alter the cooking time slightly.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this wholesome Dal is entirely plant-based, nourishing both body and spirit.

How can I enhance the flavor?

Experiment with additional herbs like bay leaves or fresh basil while cooking to create your own signature blend

May your journey in preparing this 1-Pot Indian Green Lentil Dal be filled with joy, comfort, and the subtle art of cooking with love.

Connect with Feel the Recipes

Cooking is more than making a meal it’s a way to care for ourselves and those we love. Lila shares simple, nourishing recipes and mindful kitchen moments to bring calm and joy to your table.

Join a community of home cooks who value balance, wellness, and the beauty of seasonal ingredients. Together, we can create food that heals and inspires.

🌿 Facebook: Follow us for thoughtful tips and new recipes

šŸ“Œ Pinterest: Save nourishing recipes and seasonal ideas

🐦 X (Twitter): Gentle reminders and plant-based inspiration

šŸ“ø Instagram: @feeltherecipes for peaceful kitchen moments

Let’s create meals with intention. Whether you’re starting your plant-based journey or simply seeking balance, we’re here to support you one recipe at a time.

Author

  • Mama Lila, a joyful plus-size woman and co-author at Feel the Recipes, laughing as she kneads dough in her sunlit, rustic kitchen.

    I’m Lila, and I cook with the seasons, using plant-based ingredients to nourish body and soul. My recipes bring balance and comfort, helping you create meals that feel grounding, healing, and full of life.

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating