Lentil Curry

Lentil Curry

Lentil Curry is a warm and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of spices and the hearty texture of lentils. It’s a perfect meal for those chilly evenings when you crave something filling yet wholesome. This recipe is simple to make, using common ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Perfect for families or for meal prep, Lentil Curry is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

Creating Lentil Curry at home is not only easy, but it also promotes healthy eating. Lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. This recipe is versatile and can be modified to suit your taste. Additionally, Lentil Curry is budget-friendly, and it can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan, making it suitable for almost any dietary preference.

How to Make Lentil Curry

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp coconut oil (or olive oil)
• 1 onion (finely diced)
• 1 ½ garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 medium carrot (finely diced)
• 1 cup (240 g) crushed tomatoes (tinned)
• 1 cup (190 g) red lentils (uncooked)
• 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 cup (220 ml) coconut milk
• 1 ½ tbsp cashew butter (or preferred nut butter)
• ½ tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp ginger paste (or ⅓ tsp grated ginger)
• 2 tsp curry powder
• Salt (to taste)
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp garam masala (optional)
• ½ tsp turmeric (optional)
• Chili powder (optional for spicy curry)

Directions

1. Heat coconut oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté minced garlic, diced onion, and ginger paste until they smell fragrant.
3. Add salt and all the spices to the pan and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir frequently with a wooden spoon to prevent burning.
4. Pour in the broth, uncooked lentils, carrot, and crushed tomatoes. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Stir in the coconut milk, cashew butter, and lemon juice. Cook uncovered for another 5-10 minutes.
6. After cooking, taste and adjust the salt and spices if needed. Serve warm with rice, naan, or your favorite sides.

How to Serve Lentil Curry

Lentil Curry is best served warm. Pair it with steamed rice or warm naan to soak up the rich sauce. You can also serve it with fresh greens or a simple salad for a complete meal. Enjoy it on chilly nights or share it with friends and family for an inviting dinner.

How to Store Lentil Curry

If you have leftovers, transfer the Lentil Curry to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If it thickens a bit, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.

Tips to Make Lentil Curry

1. Adjust spices according to your taste. Feel free to add more chili powder for a spicy kick or leave it out for a milder dish.
2. For extra nutrition, add chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
3. If you don’t have cashew butter, any nut butter can work. Peanuts or almond butter are great alternatives.

Variation

You can customize this Lentil Curry by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. Additionally, you can use different lentils such as green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary slightly.

FAQs

1. Can I make Lentil Curry in advance?
Yes! Lentil Curry is great for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

2. Is Lentil Curry vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses coconut milk and does not include any animal products.

3. What can I substitute for coconut milk?
You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk. However, it will alter the flavor a bit, as coconut milk gives it a creamier texture.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Lentil Curry! It’s a dish that warms both your heart and your stomach.