Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This Indian-inspired Lentils with Tamarind and Veggies recipe is not just a dish, it's a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of India. Imagine a hearty, nutritious meal that combines the earthy richness of lentils, the zesty punch of tamarind, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables - all prepared in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans)
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil
- Water as needed
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, removing any debris or small stones.
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed lentils with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- While lentils are cooking, prepare the vegetables by chopping the onion and tomato into small, uniform pieces. Dice the mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans) into bite-sized chunks.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter and pop for about 30 seconds.
- Add chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until they turn translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate the chopped tomatoes and mixed vegetables into the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are slightly tender.
- Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess water and add them to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Stir in the tamarind paste and salt, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Add a little water if the mixture seems dry, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The dish should have a balanced sweet-tangy flavor from the tamarind.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving hot with rice or flatbread.
Tips
- Lentil Perfection: Always rinse lentils thoroughly and check for any small stones. Cook them gently to maintain their texture - tender, but not mushy.
- Tamarind Technique: Use high-quality tamarind paste for the best tangy flavor. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to swap the mixed vegetables based on seasonal availability. The key is to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Spice it Up: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of turmeric or garam masala when cooking the vegetables.
- Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs perfectly with steamed basmati rice, naan bread, or even as a hearty side dish.Pro tip: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
