Dhal with Cumin-Roasted Cauliflower (Printable Version)

Creamy spiced lentils paired with golden roasted cauliflower for a warming vegetarian dish.

# What You 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 (14 ounces) 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

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet 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. Spread on prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
03 - Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through, 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.
05 - Add onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chili; cook for 1 minute more.
06 - Add ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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 for desired consistency.
08 - Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning. Serve in bowls topped with roasted cauliflower and fresh cilantro.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The roasted cauliflower adds this incredible crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy lentils
  • Its one of those meals that tastes like it took hours but actually comes together in under an hour
  • The spice blend creates layers of flavor that keep you coming back for another bite
02 -
  • The dhal continues to thicken as it sits, so if you are making it ahead, thin it with a little water or broth when reheating
  • Red lentils cook faster than other varieties and naturally break down into a creamy texture without any blending required
03 -
  • Rinse your lentils thoroughly until the water runs clear to remove any dust or debris
  • Toast your spices in the oil before adding liquid to unlock their full flavor potential
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