Nourishing Ayurvedic Dhal Recipe for Winter Wellness

As the seasons change and colder months settle in, our bodies crave warm, grounding foods that promote balance and wellbeing. This Ayurvedic dhal recipe is packed with anti-inflammatory spices, nourishing ingredients, and comforting flavours to support digestion, boost immunity, and keep you feeling vibrant through winter.

The Benefits of Ayurvedic Dhal

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of holistic healing, emphasizes the importance of eating seasonally and balancing our body’s energies (doshas) with the right foods. This warming dhal is designed to:

• Support gut health with fiber-rich lentils and digestion-boosting spices.
• Strengthen immunity with turmeric, garlic, and ginger.
• Reduce inflammation through the powerful combination of Ayurvedic spices.
• Provide sustained energy with slow-digesting carbohydrates from lentils and sweet potato.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp coconut oil or ghee
• 1½ cups dried red lentils
• 1 tbsp ground cumin seed
• 1 tbsp ground coriander seed
• 1 tbsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp chilli powder or flakes
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh ginger root, grated
• ½ bunch fresh coriander (roots and leaves chopped separately)
• 1 litre water or vegetable stock
• ½ cauliflower, chopped small
• 1 medium sweet potato, chopped small
• Optional: 1 fresh chopped red chilli (for extra heat) & 4 tbsp coconut yoghurt (for a creamy texture)

How to Make It:

1️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: Heat coconut oil or ghee in a large pot. Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and coriander roots. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
2️⃣ Toast the Spices: Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, fennel seeds, black pepper, salt, and chilli powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their full flavor.
3️⃣ Add Lentils & Veggies: Mix in the lentils, sweet potato, and cauliflower, coating them in the spice mixture.
4️⃣ Simmer: Pour in the water or vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until thick and creamy, stirring occasionally.
5️⃣ Final Touch: Stir in coconut yoghurt for extra creaminess (if using) and adjust seasoning to taste.
6️⃣ Garnish & Serve: Top with fresh coriander leaves and enjoy warm!

Serving Suggestions

This dhal pairs perfectly with warm basmati rice, quinoa, or fresh flatbread. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed greens for an extra nutrient boost.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Easy to make – One pot, minimal ingredients, and ready in under 40 minutes.
✔ Nutritious & healing – Packed with Ayurvedic spices that promote overall health.
✔ Comforting & satisfying – A warm, hearty meal that leaves you feeling nourished.
✔ Vegan & gluten-free – Suitable for most dietary needs.

Embrace the wisdom of Ayurveda and enjoy this simple, healing dish to keep you warm, balanced, and energised all winter long!