My coconut dal is inspired by the amazing fresh coconut based curries I had the great pleasure of eating in Kerala at the end of last year.
They use fresh coconut in so many delicious dishes, and they have an ingenious little coconut meat shredding tool.
As I don’t have one, I thought I’d use organic, unsweetened, desiccated coconut, and it worked like a dream.
I’ve got to say I’m super happy with this recipe. Not only does it taste great, it’s simple to make, and it’s wholesome and nutritious. Three big ticks!
I’m also experimenting and looking into not using my usual tomatoes and garlic as the base for some of my recipes. This is another tip I learnt in India where onions, spices, and water form the base of lots of curries, and they’re still truly delicious.
So my super simple dal is made like this; fry onions then spices in some coconut oil, wash your red lentils, add them to the pan with water, simmer for 15 minutes then finally stir in the desiccated coconut, season, and that’s it!! Couldn’t be simpler, and it’s absolutely delicious.
And of course, I topped the dal with my new obsession–toasted sunflower seeds. Just dry fried for a few minutes until they become slightly toasted and nutty. Guaranteed to enhance any meal.
Enjoy, love Niki xx
Daniel
Perfect and easy. It was a success at home. Thanks!
Niki
So glad to hear that Daniel!
Best
Niki x
Hayley
Just made this for lunch and even with taking out the chilli flakes it was super tasty!
Niki
Hi Hayley
Amazing! Really glad.
Love, Niki xx
Anna Roughley
Just made this tonight for dinner – was delicious! Added in some spinach to boost the nutrients in this cold weather. Thanks for sharing your recipes x
Niki
Hi Anna
Ooh love your addition!
Love, Niki xxx
Hannah M
Hi, tried this recipe tonight! We thought the base flavour was delish…but is there an ingredient missing, perhaps coconut milk, or less water needed? Turned out very watery, needed more substance. Will try to perfect. Hannah 🙂
Niki
Hey Hannah
So glad you liked the flavour but sorry it came out too watery. It’s usually ok…
Maybe just add a couple of cups at a time. Coconut milk would be very delicious!
Love Niki xxx
Natasha
Looking forward to trying this recipe x
Niki
Hi Natasha
I’m so glad you like it!
Love Niki xx
janine
Wow Niki, such a simple recipe. I have all ingredients at home and can’t wait to check it out tomorrow. Thank you for informing me. Coco Janine
Niki
Hey lovely!
Well I can’t wait to hear what you think!
Love as always
Niki xx
Lou
I’ve just made this for my family topped it with roasted tomatoes. Absolutely delicious. Super easy and super tasty.
Niki
Fantastic! Sounds wonderful
Niki xx