Quick & Flavorful Vegan Green Thai Lentil Curry Dal (Gluten-Free, Nut-Free)

hace 3 semanas

Inspired by: @iszy

Are you searching for a delicious, easy, and quick weeknight meal that's packed with flavor and caters to dietary needs? Look no further! This vibrant Green Thai Lentil Curry Dal is your answer. Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe utilizes the convenience of ready-made curry paste to create a comforting, aromatic, and satisfying dish in your pressure cooker. It’s naturally gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free, making it an ideal choice for many.

What makes this recipe truly special is how it brings out the bright, herbaceous notes of green Thai curry paste, with a delightful hint of lemongrass shining through. Despite "green chili" often being the first ingredient, this particular rendition focuses on rich flavor rather than intense heat, making it wonderfully approachable for all palates. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a truly memorable meal!

Vibrant Green Thai Lentil Curry Dal served over fluffy rice, garnished with fresh herbs.

What You'll Need

This recipe is designed for ease and minimal fuss, focusing on pantry staples and fresh aromatics. You'll love how simple it is to bring these ingredients together for a hearty, healthy meal.

Ingredients

1-2 tablespoons cooking oil (e.g., sunflower oil or coconut oil)
1 large bell pepper, diced (any color)
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated or minced
1 medium onion, diced (optional, if available)
2-3 tablespoons green Thai curry paste (ensure it's vegan if needed)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Cooked basmati rice for serving

Equipment

Pressure cooker (Instant Pot or stovetop)
Large sauté pan (if not using pressure cooker for sautéing)
Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pressure cooker method makes cooking a breeze, ensuring your dal is perfectly tender and flavorful in no time!

If your pressure cooker has a sauté function, use it; otherwise, heat oil in a large sauté pan. Add diced bell pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger. If using onion, add it now. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the green Thai curry paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the aromatic flavors to bloom.
Carefully add the vegetable broth, coconut milk, and rinsed lentils to the pressure cooker (or pot). Stir to combine.
Secure the lid on your pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes for red lentils, or 15-20 minutes for green lentils. Allow for natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid. Stir in the fresh lemon juice.
Serve hot over fluffy basmati rice. Enjoy your incredibly simple and flavorful meal!

A close-up of the rich, creamy Green Thai Lentil Curry Dal in a pressure cooker.

Variations and Adaptations

This versatile Green Thai Lentil Curry Dal can be easily customized to your taste and pantry!

Add More Veggies: Stir in fresh spinach at the very end until wilted, or add chopped zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms with the bell pepper in step 1.
Boost Protein: For an extra protein punch, add cubed firm tofu or chickpeas along with the lentils.
Spice It Up: If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha when serving.
No Pressure Cooker? No Problem!: Follow steps 1-3 in a large pot on the stovetop. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-35 minutes, or until lentils are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more vegetable broth or water if needed.

Tips & Hacks for the Perfect Dal

Choose Your Paste Wisely: The quality and flavor of your green Thai curry paste will significantly impact the final dish. Look for brands with natural ingredients and a vibrant aroma. Many authentic pastes are naturally vegan.
Rinsing Lentils is Key: Always rinse your lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris and excess starch, which can make the dal gummy.
Don't Skip the Lemon Juice: The fresh lemon juice added at the end brightens all the flavors and adds a crucial tangy finish that elevates the dish.
Batch Cooking: This dal reheats beautifully! Make a larger batch to enjoy as delicious leftovers throughout the week. It thickens slightly upon cooling, so you might want to add a splash of water or vegetable broth when reheating.

Ready to try this amazing vegan green Thai lentil curry dal? Share your culinary creations with the abillion community and inspire others to discover delicious plant-based recipes!

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