Red Lentil Curry, Hearty and Comforting

If you're looking for a warm, flavorful, and nourishing meal, this red lentil curry might be exactly what you need. This comforting dish is not only packed with spices and veggies, but it's also incredibly satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned curry enthusiast or new to the world of legumes, this recipe will easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Red lentils, known for their rich texture and ability to absorb flavors, are the star of this dish. Paired with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, the curry delivers a well-rounded depth of flavor. Add to that some hearty vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and spinach, and you've got yourself a wholesome, plant-based meal. To make it even more irresistible, this red lentil curry is best served with rice, naan bread, or even a side of roasted potatoes.

The Benefits of Red Lentils

Red lentils are not only delicious but also highly nutritious. They're an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and folate. Because they cook quickly compared to other legumes, they're perfect for weeknight dinners, and they also pair beautifully with a wide range of spices and vegetables. Plus, they make for a hearty and filling meal that's perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome dish.

Red lentil curry with rice

Red Lentil Curry Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons oil

• 2 onions, roughly chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon turmeric

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ - 1 teaspoon chili flakes (depending on your heat preference)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon ground coriander

• 2 teaspoons curry powder

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• A generous pinch of sea salt and pepper, to taste

• 500 ml vegetable broth

• 200 g red lentils (about 1 cup)

• 1 can of diced tomatoes

• 1 can of coconut milk

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 2 medium carrots, chopped

• 3- 4 tablespoons lemon juice

• 150 g spinach, roughly chopped

• Fresh parsley, chives, or spring onions for garnish

  
  

Instructions:

1. Cook the onions: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the oil and the chopped onions. Sauté them for about 10 minutes until they soften and begin to brown slightly. This caramelization adds richness to the curry base.

2. Add the spices: Once the onions are soft, add the garlic and all the ground spices (turmeric, ginger, chili flakes, cumin, coriander, curry powder, and garam masala). Stir-fry for about 2 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir constantly to prevent the spices from burning, as they can quickly become bitter.

3. Deglaze the pan: Pour in the vegetable broth, and with a spatula, scrape up any bits of caramelized onions and spices stuck to the bottom of the pot. This will add extra flavor to your curry.

4. Simmer the lentils: Add the red lentils and the diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring everything to a simmer. Let the mixture cook on low for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the lentils aren't cooked through or the curry is too thin, let it cook for an additional few minutes. The lentils should be soft and the curry should have a thick consistency.

5. Add vegetables and coconut milk: Once the lentils are tender, add the chopped carrots, bell pepper, coconut milk, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another 10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the curry has thickened up to your liking.

6. Add spinach: In the last 2 minutes of cooking, stir in the spinach. The heat from the curry will wilt the spinach beautifully, adding both color and nutrition.

7. Season and serve: Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and perhaps a little more lemon juice if you like a tangy kick. Serve the curry hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or spring onions.

   
   

Serving Suggestions

This red lentil curry is versatile and can be served in many ways. For a filling and comforting meal, pair it with fluffy rice, naan bread, or even roasted potatoes. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad for a lighter option. If you want to add some extra protein, consider topping the curry with roasted tofu or chickpeas or a dollop of plant-based yogurt.

Why You'll Love This Red Lentil Curry

This recipe is a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly tangy flavors. The creaminess of the coconut milk complements the heartiness of the lentils, while the assortment of spices infuses the curry with warmth and complexity. Plus, it’s easy to make, and the ingredients are simple, yet so satisfying. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious, making it the perfect go-to for any day of the week.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or preparing a meal to share with friends and family, this red lentil curry will surely be a hit. It’s a meal that brings warmth to your soul and leaves you feeling nourished from the inside out.

Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!