Description
A rich and creamy coconut lentil curry packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and aromatic spices. This easy one-pot recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup lentils (red or green), rinsed
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon or lime juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Rinse lentils under cold water. Chop onion, mince garlic and ginger, and dice tomatoes if using fresh.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
- Toast Spices: Mix in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Stir well and toast for 30 seconds to release flavors.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add diced tomatoes and cook until they break down into a thick base (about 5 minutes).
- Add Lentils & Liquids: Pour in lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and curry thickens.
- Season & Finish: Add salt, pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Squeeze in lemon or lime juice.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm with rice, naan, or quinoa.
Notes
- Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, kale, or bell peppers.
- Change Lentils: Use green, brown, or black lentils for a different texture.
- Increase Spice: Add extra chili flakes or chopped green chilies.
- Make It Creamier: Blend part of the curry before serving.
- Boost Protein: Add chickpeas or tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: indian
Keywords: creamy coconut lentil curry, vegan lentil curry, gluten-free curry, one-pot curry, easy lentil recipe.