Dehydrated red lentil dhal recipe for hiking

Red lentil dhal is one of the most practical dehydrated meals you can make for overnight and multi-day hikes. It is lightweight, nutrient-dense, naturally high in protein and fibre, and forgiving to rehydrate at camp.

Red lentils cook quickly, dehydrate well, and soften again without long simmer times. That makes this meal a reliable option when fuel, water, and patience are limited.

Why this meal works on the trail

• High protein, high return: lentils provide sustained energy without relying on meat.
• Fuel efficient: red lentils rehydrate faster than many dehydrated meals.
• Easy to boost: add olive oil, nuts, or ghee at camp to increase calorie density.
• Stable and simple: stores well when dried thoroughly and packaged properly.

Ingredients

Makes 2 servings

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 1 tablespoon curry powder (or 2 teaspoons garam masala plus 1 teaspoon turmeric)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (or 2 tablespoons passata)
• 3 cups water (for cooking at home)
• 1 cup diced vegetables (optional but recommended): carrot, capsicum, spinach, peas, or dehydrated mixed veg

Optional add-ons for camp

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil sachets (adds calories and improves texture)
• Cooked rice, couscous, or instant mash (to stretch the meal)
• Chilli flakes
• Roasted cashews or peanuts

Method: cook at home

1. Rinse red lentils until the water runs mostly clear.
2. In a pot, sauté onion in a small amount of oil or water until soft. Add garlic and ginger and cook for 30–60 seconds.
3. Add spices and tomato paste. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the flavours.
4. Add lentils and water. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 12–18 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add any vegetables and cook until the lentils are soft and the mixture is thick, not soupy. If it becomes too dry, add small amounts of water.
6. Season to taste, then cool completely before dehydrating.

Dehydrate

• Spread the cooled dhal in a thin layer (about 5–8 mm) on dehydrator trays lined with non-stick sheets or baking paper.
• Dehydrate at 60–63°C until fully dry. Expect 8–12 hours depending on thickness and humidity.
• Break up and turn pieces partway through to speed drying and prevent moist pockets.

Check dryness

Fully dried dhal should be brittle and break cleanly. Any leathery or tacky pieces need more drying. If you are unsure, dry longer. Moisture left in the centre is the main reason meals spoil on the trail.

Portion and pack

• Divide into 2 equal servings.
• Vacuum seal if possible, or pack into airtight zip-lock bags and press out excess air.
• Label each bag with the meal name, date, and rehydration instructions.

Storage guidance

For best results, store dehydrated dhal in a cool, dark place. If vacuum sealed and fully dried, it is usually fine for several months. If you are preparing meals well ahead of time, or if your home environment is warm or humid, store sealed portions in the freezer for maximum stability.

Rehydrate on the trail

1. Place one serving into your pot or a heat-safe container.
2. Add about 1 to 1.25 cups of boiling water and stir thoroughly. Add a little more if you prefer a thinner dhal.
3. Cover and sit for 10–15 minutes, stirring once or twice.
4. If using a pot cosy, place the pot in the cosy while it hydrates to save fuel.
5. Finish with olive oil, nuts, or chilli if you are using them.

How this fits into the Hiking Safety Systems

Dehydrated dhal supports the Hydration and Fuel system within the Trail Hiking Australia Hiking Safety Systems framework. It is a fuel-efficient camp meal that helps maintain energy intake and recovery on multi-day trips while keeping pack weight low. Because it requires water and heat to rehydrate, it also links directly to your water planning and stove reliability. Used deliberately, it improves food resilience without adding complexity on the trail.

Explore related guides

• Dehydrating food for hiking: benefits, limitations and planning considerations
• Dehydrating vegetables for hiking: Preparation, drying and storage
• Dehydrating meat for hiking: Tips and techniques
• Dehydrating fruit for hiking: Drying, testing and storing
• What to Look for in a Food Dehydrator for Hiking
• Lightweight food for hiking: Ideas and quantities