Slow Cooker Lentil Dal

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups dryBrown lentils$1.80
• 1 canCoconut milk$2.20
• 2 tbspCurry paste$0.80
• 1Onion$0.90
• 3 clovesGarlic$0.40
• 1 tbspGinger$0.09
• 1 tspSalt—
• Total for 4 servings$6.19

Most of the cost is coconut milk ($2.20) and brown lentils ($1.80). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $1.39. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Rinse 1.5 cups brown lentils thoroughly under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve and drain well.
2. Finely dice 1 onion, mince 3 cloves garlic, and peel and grate 1 tbsp ginger.
3. Transfer the rinsed lentils, diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger into the slow cooker insert, then add 2 tbsp curry paste, 1 can coconut milk, 1 tsp salt, and 3 cups water, stirring thoroughly to combine.
4. Cover with the lid and cook on Low for 5 to 6 hours (or on High for 3 to 4 hours) until the lentils are completely tender and soft.
5. Stir the dal vigorously with a spoon to break down some of the lentils into a rich, creamy consistency, adding a splash of warm water if it is too thick.
6. Taste for seasoning and add extra salt if desired, then ladle the hot dal into bowls to serve, with cooked basmati rice or warm naan if you like.