A twist on usual dahl recipes that rely on a tomato base. For kids who need grain-free, easily digestible carbohydrates (which help them gain weight), this can work well, as long as the lentils are cooked long enough to be very soft, about 2 hours. This recipe uses garlic salt instead of raw garlic, which seemed too pungent with the pumpkin. For meat eaters, this dish is good with chicken apple sausage like Applegate brand (GF, CF, organic). For vegetarians, if grains work, a black rice paired here is hearty and delicious. Makes 6 generous servings or 8 smaller ones.
A twist on usual dahl recipes that rely on a tomato base. For kids who need grain-free, easily digestible carbohydrates (which help them gain weight), this can work well, as long as the lentils are cooked long enough to be very soft, about 2 hours. This recipe uses garlic salt instead of raw garlic, which seemed too pungent with the pumpkin. For meat eaters, this dish is good with chicken apple sausage like Applegate brand (GF, CF, organic). For vegetarians, if grains work, a black rice paired here is hearty and delicious. Makes 6 generous servings or 8 smaller ones.
Place uncooked lentils in pot with broth, bring to low simmer. Add the cider vinegar and cook for about 30 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
While lentils are cooking, prepare your vegetables: Chop potato, cauliflower, onion, and ginger root.
After lentils are softened, add potatoes, coconut milk, and canned pumpkin. Cook for 20 minutes more.
Once potatoes are softening after about 20 minutes, add chopped cauliflower, onion, and ginger root. Add the spices ( turmeric, curcumin, and garlic salt) now too.
Cook until vegetables are soft, adding more broth if needed. I usually let this simmer for 2-3 hours and longer is fine too, as long as the dahl does not dry out or burn. Stir in maple syrup and serve.
Don’t be daunted by the longish ingredient list – it’s mostly spices, which are worth picking up at a better bulk spice shop. Turmeric, curry, and cumin give immune supportive compounds and warming flavors to this recipe, so feel free to use them liberally, along with healthful garlic and ginger. Once the chopping is done, this recipe is a one pot dinner that is easy to make. Serve with rice, quinoa, or cauli-rice. Vary the vegetables in this dish as much as you like. Another good combination is to use sweet potato with chard or beet greens, or orange or yellow bell pepper with breadfruit. Options are as varied as your imagination!
Mix powdered dry spices: Cumin, curry powder, turmeric root, salt, and paprika and set aside.
Melt coconut oil in large skillet that is 3-4 inches deep. Add minced onion, garlic, ginger root, and turmeric root, and cook on medium heat until softened but not brown.
Add tomatoes and chicken broth, and turn up heat to bring to a steady simmer. Add potatoes. Option: You may instead microwave your chopped potatoes until soft, then add them to the skillet, to make this part faster.
Add green beans, coconut milk, and chicken. Simmer for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, add dry spices, red curry paste, and honey or coconut sugar. Mix well, and continue cooking for 10 more minutes.
Just before serving, add cilantro and stir through. Serve curry over rice or quinoa.
