Delectable Dhal!

I am one for a good curry and I enjoy coming how to the smell of cumin and chilli flakes after a long day! Dhal is great for when you want something basic but also flavourful. Although it takes a long time to make, you don't have to spend a long time slaving over it and you will still be guaranteed a great tasting dinner.
Additionally, you can store it in your fridge and no one will go near it as it will not look like much! A humble life saver!

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp sunflower oil- Tesco 80p
• 1 cup of red lentils- Tesco/Sainsburys £1.15
• 1 onion- Aldi 4 red onions 91p, Tesco loose onions 16p
• 2 garlic cloves- Tesco loose garlic bulb 30p
• Cumin- 85p Tesco
• Chilli flakes- Tesco 85p
• Mustard seeds
• Salt 

1. Wash and boil the lentils. Make sure that the lentils have water just covering the surface. Allow to boil for 5-10 minutes before reducing to a simmer. Make sure to stir the lentils gentle every few minutes to make sure they don't stick to the bottom of the pan. 
2. Reduce and let the lentils simmer. Top them with hot water to stop them from drying out. You will know when to do this when they start to look stodgy and stick to the pan. 
3. After 30 minutes, heat a frying pan with some sunflower oil and wait until warm. Add the onion and garlic, cook until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the cumin until it changes colour.
4.  Add the mustard seeds. These are optional but add depth to the flavour of your dhal. Turn the heat down and the seeds should start to pop. Cover the pan with a lid or step back slightly to avoid being burnt!
5. When your lentils are slightly mushy but not soupy, add them to the pan and mix in with the onions and spices. Keep checking your consistency, adding water until you think its ready and at a consistency that you like. I prefer my dhal slightly runny but I know other people who prefer it thicker. Add some salt for taste and then serve!

Enjoy with a slice of naan or some rice and a spoonful of chutney! This is great alone or with another complementary curry! Try it with my other curry recipe; cauliflower, spinach and chickpea!! 

Remember, budget not boring!