Discover the warm, comforting flavors of Indian cuisine with our delightful recipe for Red Split Lentils with Cumin Seeds! This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and nutritious option for your dinner table. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a hearty meal that serves four, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The earthy aroma of toasted cumin seeds combined with the creamy texture of red lentils will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet delicious recipe? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red split lentils
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the red split lentils thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear, removing any debris or impurities.
- Heat a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and dry toast them for 30-45 seconds until they become fragrant and slightly darker, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add chopped onions to the pan with the toasted cumin seeds. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and start to soften.
- Introduce minced garlic and turmeric to the pan, stirring continuously for another 1-2 minutes to release their aromatic flavors and prevent garlic from burning.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed red split lentils. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan. Simmer for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the lentils for tenderness. They should be soft and have a creamy consistency. If needed, add a little more broth and continue cooking.
- Season with salt to taste, stirring well to incorporate.
- Remove from heat and let the lentils rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving hot, preferably with rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Always rinse your red split lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes any impurities and helps achieve a smoother texture in the final dish.
- Toast Cumin Seeds: Toasting the cumin seeds before adding other ingredients enhances their flavor. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly—just 30-45 seconds is all you need for that fragrant aroma!
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner consistency, feel free to add more vegetable broth during the simmering process. The lentils should be soft but still hold some shape.
- Experiment with Spices: While this recipe is delicious as is, don’t hesitate to experiment with additional spices like garam masala or chili powder for an extra kick.
- Serve with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or naan bread. Consider serving it with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish with its fresh flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
