There’s something about the gentle simmer of spices mingling with lentils and rice that feels like coming home. This one pot dhal rice recipe is exactly that kind of meal—warm, inviting, and satisfying without any fuss. One evening, I found myself distracted by a dozen things while the pot bubbled quietly on the stove. I wasn’t sure if I’d gotten the timing right, but when I finally lifted the lid, the rich aroma of cumin and turmeric filled the kitchen, promising something comforting and delicious.
That first forkful was a small surprise—soft lentils blended seamlessly with fluffy basmati rice, all wrapped in layers of fragrant spices. It wasn’t perfect; I think I let it cook just a minute longer than usual, which gave the edges a slightly thicker texture. Honestly, it made the dish feel even heartier. I stirred in fresh cilantro as the final touch, the bright herb lifting the warm flavors just enough to keep each bite interesting.
Why You’ll Love It:
- It’s all done in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to relax.
- The spices aren’t overpowering but build a comforting depth that’s perfect for winding down.
- You get a balanced meal with protein and carbs that feels nourishing without being heavy.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
If you’re feeling unsure about the spices, start with less chili and adjust as you go. This dish is forgiving and adapts well to different tastes.
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One Pot Dhal Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A comforting and flavorful one pot dhal rice recipe combining lentils, rice, and aromatic spices for an easy, nutritious meal.
Ingredients
1 cup red split lentils (masoor dal), rinsed
1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 green chili, finely chopped
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Instructions
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds to the hot oil and cook until they start to pop, about 1 minute.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and green chili to the pot. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the turmeric powder, ground coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute to release the spices’ aroma.
Add the rinsed red split lentils and basmati rice to the pot and stir well to coat them with the spices and onion mixture.
Pour in 4 cups of water and add salt. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and rice are tender and the water is absorbed.
Remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
Fluff the dhal rice gently with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro leaves before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Kitchen Notes:
This recipe comes together easily with just one sturdy pot—no fancy equipment needed. I usually serve it with a dollop of plain yogurt or a side of pickled vegetables to add a little tang and crunch. Sometimes I swap the green chili for a small dried red chili, but I haven’t tested all the variations thoroughly, so your mileage may vary. You could try adding a handful of fresh spinach toward the end for some extra greens, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up just before serving.
FAQ:
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days, and reheating is simple—just add a splash of water and warm gently to keep it from drying out.
Is it okay if I don’t have all the spices? Yes, you can still get a tasty result with just turmeric and cumin, though the full spice blend gives the best flavor depth.
Can I use a different type of lentils or rice? I haven’t tried every combination, but red split lentils and basmati rice work best for texture and timing.
When you’re ready for a meal that’s both soothing and flavorful, this one pot dhal rice answers the call. Give it a try and see how a simple pot can fill your kitchen with warmth.