Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and wholesome Cauliflower Dal with Panch Phoron. Combining tender red lentils and roasted cauliflower, this dish is infused with the bold, aromatic charm of Panch Phoron—Bengali five-spice mix—sizzling in hot oil for a burst of flavor. Enhanced with aromatic garlic, ginger, and vibrant turmeric, it's a balanced blend of creamy dal and tender vegetable textures. Finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of cilantro, it offers a nourishing, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly option perfect for pairing with steamed rice or warm flatbreads. Whether you're new to Indian-inspired cooking or a seasoned spice lover, this recipe is an unmissable, fragrant delight!
Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear, then set them aside.
In a large pot, combine the red lentils, 4 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
While the lentils cook, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the Panch Phoron to the hot oil and let the spices sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
Add the minced garlic, ginger, and slit green chilies. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
Mix in the diced tomato and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomato softens and melds with the spices.
Add the cauliflower florets to the skillet, stir well, and cook for 5-6 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to absorb the flavors.
Once the lentils are fully cooked, pour the skillet contents into the pot with the dal. Stir well to combine.
Simmer the dal and cauliflower mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust salt to taste.
Turn off the heat, stir in the chopped cilantro and lemon juice for a fresh finish.
Serve hot with steamed rice or warm flatbreads. Enjoy!
Calories |
649 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.7 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.3 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2486 mg | 108% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 81.7 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 27.8 g | 99% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.9 g | ||
| Protein | 27.4 g | 55% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 229 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 10.5 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 2255 mg | 48% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.