Red Lentil Dal Freezer Meal Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
I can't emphasize enough the value of freezer meals like this Red Lentil Dal. Spend a little extra time prepping ahead, and you'll thank yourself later when a wholesome dinner is just a freezer pull and slow cooker away. No need to compromise on taste or nutrition.
Gluten Free

Today, I’m excited to introduce you to a paradigm shifter in the realm of make-ahead meals: Red Lentil Dal. Imagine a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul with every bite. That’s exactly what this flavorful dal offers, with its rich blend of red lentils, aromatic spices, and a hint of tanginess from tomatoes.

Let’s explore the realm of ease and efficiency, shall we? As someone who’s constantly seeking ways to save time in the kitchen, I can’t emphasize enough the value of freezer meals like this Red Lentil Dal. Spend a little extra time prepping ahead, and you’ll thank yourself later when a wholesome dinner is just a freezer pull away. No need to compromise on taste or nutrition when you have a stash of homemade goodness ready and waiting in your freezer.

So, are you ready to simplify your mealtime routine and savor the goodness of homemade meals, even on your busiest days? Join me as we whip up a batch of Red Lentil Dal together. I’ll guide you through the process step by step, sharing my tips for maximizing flavor and efficiency so you can stock your freezer with deliciousness that’s ready whenever hunger strikes.

Why you’ll love this Healthy Red Lentil Dal Recipe?

  • Kid-approved: Even picky eaters will love the mild yet flavorful taste of this dal, making dinner time a breeze.
  • Freezer-friendly: Prep a big batch and store it in portioned containers in the freezer for easy grab-and-go meals whenever you need them.
  • Health-conscious: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is a wholesome choice for fueling your family’s bodies.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences, making it a dish everyone can enjoy.
  • Meal prep hero: Spend a little time on the weekend preparing this freezer meal, and you’ll thank yourself all week long when dinner is as simple as reheating and serving.
Red Lentil Dal Freezer Meal Recipe
I can't emphasize enough the value of freezer meals like this Red Lentil Dal. Spend a little extra time prepping ahead, and you'll thank yourself later when a wholesome dinner is just a freezer pull and slow cooker away. No need to compromise on taste or nutrition.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4
Equipment
  • 1 Slow Cooker
  • 1 gallon freezer bag
Ingredients
  
  • 1 1/2 cups Red lentils
  • 1 cup Frozen diced onion
  • 2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 2 tsp Ground ginger
  • 2 tsp Ground cumin
  • 4 tbsp Curry paste
  • 1 Full fat coconut milk can
  • 1 Diced tomatoes can
  • 1-2 cups Butternut squash frozen diced
  • 1 can Chicken broth
Instructions
 
Prep/freezer directions:
  • Label gallon freezer bag according to your preferred labeling method.
  • Add all ingredients to labeled gallon freezer bag.
  • Store in freezer for up to three months.
Slow cooker directions:
  • Thaw overnight in fridge (Meal may not be 100% thawed but that is ok)
  • Add freezer bag contents into slow cooker.
  • Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
  • Serve over rice and enjoy!
Keyword easy freezer meals for new moms, freezer meals, Red Lentil Dal, Slow Cooker Recipes, Vegetarian Recipes
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Equipment needed to Make Authentic Red Lentil Dal

  • 1 Slow Cooker
  • 1 gallon freezer bag

Ingredients for your Red Lentil Dal

  • 1 1/2 cups Red lentils
  • 1 cup Frozen diced onion
  • 2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 2 tsp Ground ginger
  • 2 tsp Ground cumin
  • 4 tbsp Curry paste
  • 1 Full fat coconut milk, can
  • 1 Diced tomatoes, can
  • 1-2 cups Butternut squash, frozen diced
  • 1 can Chicken broth

How to make a Red Lentil Dal

Prep/freezer directions:

  1. Label gallon freezer bag according to your preferred labeling method.
  2. Add all ingredients to labeled gallon freezer bag.
  3. Store in freezer for up to three months.

Slow cooker directions:

  1. Thaw overnight in fridge (Meal may not be 100% thawed but that is ok)
  2. Add freezer bag contents into slow cooker.
  3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
  4. Serve over rice and enjoy!

What to pair with your Freezer-Friendly Red Lentil Dal

Sides:

Desserts:

  • Mango Lassi Popsicles 
  • Cardamom Rice Pudding
  • Gulab Jamun

Mocktails:

Popular Substitutions and Additions

Substitutions:

  • Yellow Lentils: If you’re out of red lentils, you can easily substitute them with yellow lentils. They cook similarly and offer a slightly different texture but are equally delicious and nutritious.
  • Fresh Onion and Garlic: Instead of frozen diced onion and garlic powder, you can use fresh onion and minced garlic. Simply sauté them in a little oil until softened before adding them to the recipe.
  • Fresh Butternut Squash: If you prefer fresh ingredients over frozen, you can substitute frozen diced butternut squash with fresh butternut squash. Simply peel, dice, and cook it until tender before adding it to the dal.

Additions:

  • Spinach: Add a pop of color and extra nutrients to your dal by stirring in a couple of cups of frozen spinach. It will wilt down nicely into the dish and add a delightful earthy flavor.
  • Chickpeas: For an extra protein boost and texture, toss in a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas. They’ll complement the lentils beautifully and make the dish even more hearty and satisfying.
  • Fresh Herbs: Garnish your dal with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. These herbs will add brightness and freshness to the dish, enhancing its flavors and presentation.

These substitutions and additions will add variety and depth to your Red Lentil Dal freezer meal while still ensuring that all ingredients can be frozen for convenient meal prep. Enjoy experimenting with these variations!

How to Reheat and Store Red Lentil Dal

Best way to store Easy Red Lentil Dal leftovers?

Allow the dal to cool completely. Let the leftover dal cool down for about 30 minutes at room temperature before transferring it to a storage container. Then portion out your leftovers into smaller portions for easier reheating, if desired.
Make sure to seal tightly ensuring that the containers or bags are tightly sealed to prevent air from entering. Label and date your containers with the contents and the date it was prepared. This will help keep track of how long the dal has been stored.

How long will Red Lentil Dal last in the fridge?

When properly following the storage and cooling procedures, your leftover Lentil Dal should remain fresh in the fridge for 3-5 days.

Can I freeze Healthy Red Lentil Dal?

Yes, to store in the freezer is a great way to extend the life of your leftovers. We recommend prepping this recipe as a raw freezer meal, simply adding all ingredients into a labeled gallon freezer bag, removing excess air, sealing and freezing for up to three months.
If you are looking to freeze leftovers that have already been prepped, you can follow the same process to allow cooling of leftovers and proper storage techniques, then place in a freezer bag and remove excess air.

How to Reheat Quick Red Lentil Dal?

The best way to reheat your Red Lentil Dal recipe is to thaw your leftovers overnight. Transfer the desired portion to a microwave safe plate and set for short bursts of 30-60 seconds. Stir in between each interval until you have reached your desired temperature.
You may also use the stovetop, this is the best method for preserving the texture and flavor of your fresh cooked recipe. Put a splash of broth in a saucepan, add your leftovers into the saucepan and stir occasionally until your desired temp has been reached with your leftover dal.

Family Friendly Red Lentil Dal FAQs

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Don’t forget to come back and let me know how your Red Lentil Dal turned out!

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    Hi! I'm Hannah

    As a full time working mom of four, I know how hard it is to find time (or energy) to cook. That’s why I’ve spent over a decade perfecting freezer meal recipes to make sure they’re not only quick to prepare but packed with flavors the whole family will love!

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