This Red Lentil Dhal with Cauliflower, Beetroot Strips & Coconut is a nourishing, fiber-rich dish that supports gut health and boosts immunity. Infused with warming spices, creamy coconut, and naturally sweet roasted beets, it’s both comforting and nutrient-dense. Perfect for a cozy meal, it balances earthy, spiced flavours with a hint of citrusy brightness.
Red Lentil Dhal with Cauliflower
Lentils are wonderful to eat, with a range of nutritional benefits and so versatile in cooking with a different vegetables for an extra flavour. Here is the red dhal with cauliflower and beetroots strips or, even roasted beetroot
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 30 min | Total: 40 min
Ingredients
- 1 small cauliflower
- 1 tin of coconut milk
- 1 large onion, or 2 small shallots finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 thumb of fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 small red chilli
- 1 tsp of miso paste
- few beetroot strips ( or, roasted beetroots as garnish )
- handful fresh corriander
- fresh dill
1. Prepare the Base (Aromatic Layer): Heat 1 tbsp oil in a deep pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, stirring until fragrant (30 sec). Add chopped onion, cook until soft (3-4 min). Stir in garlic & ginger, chilli cook for another 3 minutes.
2. Spice Infusion: Lower heat slightly and add turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, paprika. Stir well to toast the spices (30 sec – 1 min) (this releases their oils & deepens flavour).
3. Saute Cauliflower: Cut cauliflower in small pieces and saute together with spices for 10mins.
4. Cook the Lentils: Add rinsed lentils, stir to coat with spices and cauliflower. Pour in miso broth & coconut milk, stir. Simmer on low heat for 15-25 min, stirring occasionally.
Once lentils are soft, add: lime juice (balances richness), salt & pepper to taste. Let it rest for 5 min before serving (thickens slightly).
6. Garnish & Serve: Top with toasted with fresh coriander, dill and strips of beetroot or, even extra roasted beets.
And, have you seen the Dhal with roasted vegetables I made in Autumn? Click here for a full recipe.
Serve warm and enjoy this warming gut friendly dish.
Julia