Masala lentils curry in a classic garam masala gravy: lentils cooked in an onion-tomato masala with ginger, garlic and warm spices. A practical Indian recipe ready in about 56 minutes.
Prep 18 min Cook 38 min Serves 4 Medium
Ingredients
🌶️Garam Masala1 tsp
🧅Onion2 medium, finely chopped
🍅Tomato2 medium, chopped
🧄Garlic4 cloves, minced
🫙Ginger1 tbsp, grated
🌶️Cumin Seeds1 tsp
🌶️Coriander Powder1 tsp
🌶️Turmeric Powder1/2 tsp
🫙Vegetable Oil2 tbsp
🫙Lentils1 cup, rinsed
🌶️Red Chili Powder1 tsp
Optional extras
🌿Fresh Cilantro2 tbsp, chopped
🍋Lemon1/2, juiced
Instructions
1
Prepare the lentils and chop the onion, tomato and aromatics.
2
Heat the vegetable oil, crackle the cumin seeds, then fry the onion until deep golden.
3
Add ginger, garlic and tomato with turmeric, chili and coriander powders; cook until the oil separates from the masala, then stir in the garam masala.
4
Add the lentils with 1½ cups water and simmer until thick and creamy, mashing a few pieces to thicken.
5
Finish with cilantro and lemon; taste for salt and serve hot with rice or roti.
Chef's tip
Bhunao patiently: fry the masala until the oil separates before adding the main ingredient.
