Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Saute for 4-5 minutes until the onions soften. Add tomatoes, salt, and powdered spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder). Mix well and cook for 4-5 minutes or until the tomatoes begin to soften.
Add the rinsed red lentils and water. Mix well and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Stir in spinach and garam masala. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the spinach is wilted. Turn off the heat and stir in lemon juice.
Cook the rice:
Rinse the rice well until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
Make the Naan:
In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, salt, and self-rising flour. Mix well until a soft dough forms. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle on a lightly floured surface.
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Place the rolled naan and cook for 1-2 minutes per side or until golden brown and bubbly.
Roast the vegetables:
Preheat oven to 350℉. In a large bowl, toss broccoli florets, sweet potato cubes, bell pepper slices, and red onion slices with oil, curry powder, and salt. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender-crisp, stirring halfway through.
Make the raita:
Make the Raita: In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, chopped cucumber, cilantro, and salt.
Assemble the Bowl:
Divide cooked rice among bowls. Top with red lentil dal, roasted vegetables, and a piece of naan. Add a dollop of raita and enjoy!
Notes
Always rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any dust or debris and reduces foam during cooking.
For perfectly cooked basmati rice, use a 1:1.5 ratio of rice to water. Adjust based on your preference for firmer or softer rice.
Let the raita sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it more refreshing.
Don't overwork the naan dough. This is a simple dough, so resist the urge to knead it excessively. Overworking can lead to tough naan.