Pasta with Dal

Pasta with Dal is a delightful fusion dish that combines the comforting textures of pasta with the rich flavors of Indian spiced lentils. This Halal dish offers a unique twist on traditional pasta, making it a hearty and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

• Pasta (penne or fusilli) - 150 grams
• Red lentils (dal) - 100 grams
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Tomato - 1 medium, diced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 inch, grated
• Green chili - 1, slit (optional)
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Garam masala - 1 teaspoon
• Cilantro (coriander leaves) - a handful, chopped
• Vegetable oil or ghee - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - to taste
• Water - 500 ml

Steps

1. In a pot, bring 500 ml of water to a boil. Add the red lentils and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 15 minutes until tender, then drain and set aside.
2. In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
4. Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until golden brown.
5. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
6. Add the diced tomato, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomato softens, about 5 minutes.
7. Mix in the cooked lentils and garam masala. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the lentil mixture, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly.
9. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 12 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein from lentils, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.

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