it's daal, darl

the lentil plant

i love lentils: yummy, cheap and fabulously flexible, i always have a few different types in the cupboard. this daal is quick and scrumptious, especially served with papaddums (microwaved for maximum convenience!). proportions can be changed, and ingredients omitted to taste and dietary requirements. this serves 4-6.

2tbs coconut (or other) oil

3 cloves garlic, minced or crushed

3cm ginger, finely grated

3-4 tbs mild curry powder

1c red lentils, uncooked

1c coconut milk or cream

3c water or stock

1 medium zucchini, coarsely shredded

2 medium carrots, coarsely shredded

salt and pepper or chilli to taste

optional: coarsely chopped coriander, steamed basmati rice and papaddums to serve

heat the oil in a medium saucepan; fry the garlic, ginger and curry powder for a minute on medium heat. stir in the lentils. add the coconut milk/cream and stock, cook on low for 10 minutes stirring occasionally, adding a little more water if it gets too thick. 

stir in shredded zucchini and carrot, cook for a further 5-10 minutes.