Sweet potato dhal with curried vegetables

Step 1

To make the dhal, heat the oil in a large non-stick pan and fry the onion over a low heat for 10 mins, stirring regularly, until softened and very lightly browned – add the garlic for the final min. Stir in the curry powder and cook for 30 secs more.

Step 2

Add the lentils, 1 tsp flaked sea salt and 1 litre of water. Stir in the sweet potatoes and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the lentils for 50 mins or until the dhal is thick, stirring regularly. Add a splash of water if the dhal thickens too much. Stir in the lime or lemon juice and season to taste.

Step 3

While the dhal is cooking, make the curried vegetables. Half-fill a medium non-stick pan with water and bring to the boil. Add the beans, cauliflower and carrots, and return to the boil. Cook for 4 mins, then drain.

Step 4

Return the pan to the heat and add the oil and onion. Cook over a medium-high heat for 3-4 mins or until the onion is lightly browned, stirring regularly. Add the garlic and cook for 1 min more until softened. Stir in the curry powder and cook for a few secs, stirring.

Step 5

Add the tomatoes, green chilli according to taste and 200ml cold water. Cook for 5 mins or until the tomatoes are well softened, stirring regularly. Stir in the blanched vegetables and cook for 4-5 mins or until hot throughout. Season with black pepper.

Step 6

Divide the dhal between four deep bowls and top with the curried vegetables. Serve with the yogurt, coriander and lime wedges for squeezing over.