Welcome to the very first edition of Dany’s Dish! We’re thrilled to kick off this series by sharing how vegetarian and vegan dishes can be both delicious and nutritious. Dany’s passion for cooking, especially with the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine, drives him to create meals that inspire and satisfy.
Each month, we’ll highlight a recipe that celebrates the beauty of plant-based ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these dishes are designed to delight your taste buds and show how fulfilling meat-free cooking can be.
For our first recipe, we’re featuring Dal with pickled eggplant, a twist on the classic Indian dish that’s as versatile as it is flavorful. Dal is traditionally made with various legumes, and in this vegan version, I’ve used red lentils to create a protein-rich, hearty meal. The addition of pickled eggplant adds a unique tangy depth, elevating the dish to something truly special. This dal is perfect on its own or paired with rice or naan for a complete, satisfying meal.
Stay tuned for a delicious journey into the world of plant-based cooking!
Ingredients for the pickled eggplant
• 1 eggplant
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 3 green chilies
• 2 red jalapeños
• 1 tsp salt
• 5 tbsp vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
Ingredients for the Dal
• 200 grams red lentils
• 600 ml water
• 200 ml coconut milk
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 2 tsp curry powder
• Salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare the eggplant:
• Dice the eggplant and set aside.
• Blend all pickled eggplant ingredients into a smooth paste.
Cook the Dal:
• Rinse lentils and combine with 600 ml water in a pan. Bring to a boil.
• Add onion, turmeric, curry powder, and salt. Simmer gently.
• Stir in coconut milk and continue cooking.
Finish the dish:
• Sauté eggplant until golden brown. Mix with the eggplant paste.
• Combine the eggplant mixture with the dal.
Serve:
• Garnish with parsley and chili oil if desired.