Go Back
–+ servings
Instant pot dal recipe
Print

20-Minute Instant Pot Green Lentil Dal (Vegan)

This Vegan Instant Pot Dal takes 20 minutes to make. It's aromatic, beautifully spiced, flavourful and filling! Made with green lentils for a meat-free curry!
Course Entree, Main Dish
Cuisine 1 pot, American, Indian
Diet Gluten Free, Low Fat, Low Lactose, Low Salt, Vegan, Vegetarian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 308kcal
Author Hannah Sunderani

Ingredients

  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 yellow onion , finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic , finely chopped
  • 3/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1 cup green lentils (dry)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes , strained (795 mL/28 fl oz)
  • 1/3 cup coconut cream (or coconut milk)
  • 1/2 lime , juiced
  • fresh cilantro for garnish, finely chopped

Instructions

  • In a small bowl combine the spice mixture: curry powder, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and chili flakes. Set aside.
  • Turn the Instant Pot to "Sauté" setting and add the coconut oil, onion and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then add the spice mixture along with 2 tbsp water. Cook until the onions have softened. Then hit "Cancel," and scoop out the spiced mixture.
  • Add the lentils to the Instant Pot along with 3 cups of water. Cover and seal the lid with the vent turned to sealing. Hit the "Pressure Cook" button and set it to 10 minutes. (It takes a few minutes for the Instant pot to come to pressure. Then the timer will begin countdown).
  • When the timer is complete, move the toggle to release the pressure. (It's helpful to put a kitchen towel over top to catch the steam). Let sit for 5 minutes, then open the lid.
  • Transfer the spice mixture back into the Instant Pot along with the diced tomatoes and coconut cream. Squeeze in the lime juice Mix and mix well to combine. Serve immediately, or hit the "keep warm" button until ready to eat. Scoop into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve this Dal on it's own, or with naan bread, or basmati rice.

Notes

Dal will keep for up to 5 days. Keep in the fridge in an air-tight container. 
You can also freeze this dal for up to 2 months. Let thaw and room temperature and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop. 
Nutrition information is a rough estimate. 

Nutrition

Calories: 308kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Sodium: 466mg | Potassium: 820mg | Fiber: 18g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 624IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 86mg | Iron: 6mg