Dhal with Cumin-Roasted Cauliflower (Printable)

Creamy spiced lentils topped with golden roasted cauliflower florets seasoned with cumin and turmeric.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cauliflower

01 - 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1½ teaspoons whole cumin seeds
04 - ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
05 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - ½ teaspoon salt
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Dhal

08 - 1½ cups red lentils, rinsed
09 - 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
10 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
11 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
13 - 1 green chili, deseeded and finely chopped
14 - 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
15 - 1 teaspoon ground coriander
16 - ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
17 - 1 teaspoon garam masala
18 - 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
19 - 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
20 - 2½ cups vegetable broth
21 - 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
22 - Juice of ½ lemon
23 - Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin seeds, turmeric, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
03 - Spread seasoned cauliflower on prepared tray in a single layer. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden brown and crisp at edges.
04 - In a large pot, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - Add chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chili, cooking for 1 minute more.
06 - Add ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
07 - Add rinsed lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, and salt. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft and creamy. Add more broth or water if needed.
08 - Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning to taste.
09 - Ladle dhal into bowls and top with roasted cauliflower. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

# Recipe Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The combination of creamy coconut milk and tender red lentils creates a rich, protein-packed base.
  • Whole cumin seeds and smoked paprika provide a roasted cauliflower topping that is bursting with nutty and smoky notes.
  • This dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a versatile option for various dietary needs.
02 -
  • Always check the labels of your vegetable broth and coconut milk for potential allergens if you are cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.
  • The lentils continue to absorb liquid as they sit, so you may need to add a splash of water when reheating leftovers the next day.
  • Using a chef's knife for consistent dicing of the onion and ginger ensures they cook evenly and integrate seamlessly into the sauce.
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