Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal

Name: Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils; 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon coriander; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Light Nourishing Meal Ideas

A comforting and nutritious dish that combines sweet potatoes and lentils in a flavorful curry.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T17:50:27.719Z

Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of lentils with the sweetness of sweet potatoes. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and comforting texture that warms you up
Rich in protein and fiber, perfect for a healthy diet
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

Nutritional Benefits

Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal is not only delicious but packed with nutritional benefits. Red lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and are rich in fiber, making this dish a great option for vegetarians and vegans alike. Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness while providing essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A and potassium.

The combination of lentils and sweet potatoes creates a wholesome meal that supports digestive health and aids in maintaining steady energy levels throughout the day. This dish is low in fat and high in nutrients, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best things about Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal is its suitability for meal prep. This dish can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for later use. Simply reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick, nutritious meal any day of the week.

To enhance your meal prep experience, consider making a double batch of this dhal. Portion it out into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners. It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even crusty bread, providing a versatile option for various meal combinations.

Customizing Your Dhal

Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences. Feel free to add additional vegetables like spinach, kale, or carrots to up the nutrition factor even further. You can also adjust the spices according to your heat tolerance, adding chili powder or fresh chili for a spicy kick.

For a richer flavor, consider incorporating coconut milk towards the end of cooking. This will give your dhal a creamier texture and a hint of sweetness that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully. Experimenting with different toppings like yogurt, chutney, or nuts can also elevate this dish and add a variety of textures.

Ingredients

For the Dhal

1 cup red lentils
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon coriander
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside. Peel and dice the sweet potato, chop the onion, and mince the garlic and ginger.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Dhal

Add the diced sweet potato, rinsed lentils, cumin, turmeric, coriander, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your flavorful Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal!

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal is a versatile dish that can be served in numerous ways. Enjoy it on its own as a hearty soup, or serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Consider pairing it with naan or pita bread to soak up the flavorful broth, enhancing your dining experience.

For added freshness, top the dhal with a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lime juice before serving. Fresh cilantro not only adds color but also a burst of flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

Storage Tips

To maximize the freshness of your Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week when properly stored. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. Just ensure they are in freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn.

When reheating frozen dhal, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge for even heating. You can also add a splash of vegetable broth or water during reheating to restore its creamy consistency, ensuring it tastes just as good as when it was first made.

Health Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, providing a wealth of benefits that make them a staple in many diets. They are rich in iron, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood and energy levels. Additionally, lentils contain folate, an important vitamin for heart health and cell function.

Incorporating lentils into your meals can help with weight management, as their high fiber content promotes a feeling of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating. This makes Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal not just a comforting dish, but also a smart choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, you can use green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Sweet Potato Lentil Dhal is completely vegan and plant-based.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily.

→ What can I serve with this dhal?

It pairs wonderfully with rice or naan for a complete meal.