Red Lentil Curry
This comforting, creamy red lentil curry comes together effortlessly in one pot for a wholesome and flavorful plant-based meal.
Ingredients
- •1 cup dry red lentils (200g), rinsed and drained
- •1 tablespoon coconut oil
- •1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- •3 cloves garlic, minced
- •1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- •1 tablespoon curry powder
- •1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- •1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- •1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- •1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz / 400g), with their juices
- •1 can full-fat coconut milk (13.5 oz / 400ml)
- •2 cups vegetable broth (480ml)
- •2 cups fresh baby spinach
- •1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- •Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- •Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- 1
Heat the coconut oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- 2
Add the diced onion and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until soft and translucent.
- 3
Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Pour in the rinsed red lentils, diced tomatoes with juices, coconut milk, and vegetable broth, stirring well to combine.
- 5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and creamy.
- 6
Remove the lid and stir in the baby spinach until it wilts into the curry.
- 7
Stir in the fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 8
Serve warm, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro and extra lime wedges if desired.
💡 Chef tips
- For extra protein and texture, you can fold in roasted chickpeas or cubed tofu at the end.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; the curry thickens as it sits, so add a splash of water when reheating.
- This dish freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months without the fresh spinach added.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished curry is rich and creamy with a vibrant golden hue, offering a comforting aroma of warm spices and a velvety texture that melts in your mouth.