Coconut, Aubergine and Spinach Dhal

Savour the comforting flavours of our Coconut Aubergine Spinach Dhal with Toor Lentils - a delicious blend of creamy coconut, earthy toor lentils, and tender aubergine. This hearty dish boasts a subtle blend of spices that perfectly complement each ingredient, creating a satisfying meal that's both nutritious and flavourful.

Dhal is a gem in the pantry, a reliable go-to when I spy a stash of dried lentils waiting to be transformed. With a medley of spices and whatever veggies are on hand, it effortlessly transforms into a comforting, budget-friendly meal, ideal for batch cooking. This week, it was a surplus of aubergine and spinach that inspired me. Knowing our penchant for creamy curries, a generous splash of coconut milk was a non-negotiable addition. As the fragrant aroma fills the kitchen, it's a reminder that even the most simple ingredients can create a delicious meal.

Calories in Coconut, Aubergine and Spinach Dhal

This Yummy Coconut, Aubergine and Spinach Dhal serves 4 and is 237 per serving

If you're looking for more recipes within the same calorie range, you'll find an abundance of options in my dedicated collection of 200+ calorie recipes.

If you're following a calorie-controlled diet or a healthy eating plan, it's important to calculate your daily calorie intake using a reliable calorie calculator. Please note that the calorie counts provided are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. Personalizing your calculations is essential to meet your individual needs. By using a calorie calculator, you can make informed choices and stay on track with your dietary goals.

Variations and Additions

Explore these easy swaps and tweaks to customize your Aubergine Spinach Dhal to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

1. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season or available in your pantry. Try adding diced carrots, bell peppers, or potatoes for additional texture and flavour.
2. Protein Options: While toor lentils are traditionally used in this dhal, you can substitute them with other lentil varieties such as red lentils or green lentils. However, please note that this recipe has only been tested with toor lentils as listed in the ingredients. Other lentil varieties may cook at different rates or absorb varying amounts of liquid, so adjustments may be necessary.
3. Spice Adaptations: Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. For a spicier dhal, increase the amount of Kashmiri chili powder or use a hotter chili powder. You can also customize the spice blend by adding garam masala or hot curry powder for extra depth of flavour.
4. Creaminess Enhancements: If you're out of coconut milk, you can substitute with other dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk or cashew milk. However, keep in mind that the consistency of the dhal may differ slightly depending on the substitute used. I use light coconut milk in this recipe, however it you would like a more creamy dhal feel free to swap for regular coconut milk.
5. Gluten-Free Options: Ensure that your vegetable broth or stock is gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions. Additionally, double-check the labels of spice blends to avoid any hidden gluten ingredients.

By exploring these variations and substitutes, you can tailor the Aubergine Spinach Dhal to suit your preferences and dietary needs while still enjoying its comforting and aromatic qualities.

Sides Dishes for Dhal

Complete the Coconut, Aubergine and Spinach Dhal with some these delicious side dishes:

• Basmati Rice: A classic and fragrant option that pairs perfectly with Aubergine Spinach Dhal.
• Sweetcorn Pilau Rice: Elevate your meal with this flavoursome rice dish infused with sweetcorn kernels for a delightful pop of sweetness.
• Zucchini Pilau Rice: Add a twist to traditional pilau rice by incorporating tender zucchini for a fresh and vibrant flavour.
• Roasted Cauliflower Rice: Enjoy a lower-carb alternative with roasted cauliflower rice, offering a lighter option without compromising on taste or texture.
• Greek Yogurt Garlic Naan: Indulge with some garlic-infused naan bread, perfect for scooping up the delicious lentils.
• Bombay Butternut Squash: A twist on traditional Bombay potatoes, this dish features tender butternut squash seasoned with aromatic Indian spices for a flavourful side to your Aubergine Spinach Dhal.
• Poppadums: Crunchy and addictive, poppadums make a perfect accompaniment for scooping up dhal. Try this method: purchase uncooked poppadums and spray each one with low-calorie cooking spray. Cook them individually in the microwave for 30 seconds to achieve that crispy texture. Remember, cooking them one at a time ensures the best results!

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