Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavor! This red lentil dal soup is a symphony of bold spices and rich, comforting broth that will have everyone asking for the recipe after the very first spoonful. It’s the perfect blend of heat, warmth, and brightness with a citrusy twist from the lime juice and a finishing touch of fresh cilantro.
I know what you’re thinking—the long list of ingredients might look intimidating, but don’t let that stop you! This dish is all about layering flavor, and prepping your herbs and spices a day ahead will make cooking a breeze. Once everything is ready, the cooking process is simple and straightforward. Trust me, it’s well worth the effort for a dish this unforgettable!
Whether you’re making this for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dal soup is sure to become one of your go-to recipes. Now, let’s dive into the details of how to create this masterpiece of flavor!
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard seeds
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh garlic
- 4 green or red chilies, chopped (for reduced heat, use green chilies and discard seeds and membranes)
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 4 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (aka hing powder)
- 3 black cardamom pods
- Pinch of Kashmiri chili powder or cayenne pepper
- Small pinch of cinnamon
- Small pinch of cloves
- 3 cups red lentils, thoroughly rinsed and drained
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 8 cups Broth Masters Chicken Bone Broth
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Juice of one lime
- Fresh chopped cilantro for serving
- Additional salt to taste Instructions:
Prep Step (Optional but Recommended):
To make cooking easier, prep your herbs and spices a day ahead. Chop the ginger, garlic, and chilies, and measure out the dry spices into a small container. This small step can save time and make cooking more enjoyable!
Cooking Instructions:
1. Heat Spices: Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over high heat and add the mustard and cumin seeds. Fry until the mustard seeds begin to pop, about 10 seconds.
2. Add Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium-high and add the chilies, garlic, and ginger. Fry for another 20 seconds.
3. Cook Onions: Add the onion and fry until soft and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Layer Spices: Add the ground coriander, turmeric, asafoetida, black cardamom pods, Kashmiri chili powder (or cayenne), cinnamon, and cloves. Cook for another minute to fully release the spices' aroma and flavor.
5. Combine with Lentils: Add the red lentils, diced tomatoes, chicken bone broth, and salt. Stir well to combine.
6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked and the soup reaches a thick consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Final Flavor Touch: Before serving, add the lime juice a little at a time, adjusting to taste. Add more salt if needed.
8. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the chilies and cayenne to your spice preference.
- Bone Broth Bonus: Broth Masters Chicken Bone Broth adds depth of flavor and extra nutrients to this dish—especially calcium!
- Removing Cardamom Pods: Don’t forget to remove the cardamom pods before serving to avoid any unexpected bites.
Conclusion:
This red lentil dal soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser packed with bold, aromatic spices and rich flavors. By prepping your ingredients in advance and following the simple steps to layer flavors, you’ll have a dish that’s as easy to make as it is unforgettable. Get ready for compliments and recipe requests every time you serve it