Description
A creamy and flavorful red lentil curry made with coconut milk, aromatic spices, and fresh greens. This protein-rich dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup Red lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (13.5 oz) Coconut milk, full-fat
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece Fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Ground turmeric
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 4 cups Vegetable broth, low-sodium
- 2 cups Spinach or kale, fresh, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Base – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent and slightly golden.
- Step 2: Add Aromatics – Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Step 3: Toast Spices – Add cumin, turmeric, and coriander to the pot. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to release the essential oils and intensify flavors.
- Step 4: Add Liquids and Lentils – Pour in rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Step 5: Simmer – Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until lentils are tender.
- Step 6: Finish and Serve – Stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Remove from heat and add fresh lime juice before serving.
Notes
- Rinse red lentils thoroughly until water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent cloudiness
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture, but light coconut milk works for fewer calories
- Don’t skip toasting the spices – this 30-second step dramatically improves the curry’s depth of flavor
- Add leafy greens at the very end to maintain their bright color and prevent overcooking
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1 cup)
- Calories: 320 calories
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: red lentil curry, vegetarian curry, coconut milk curry, healthy dinner, plant-based protein, Indian cuisine