Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that transports your taste buds straight to the heart of India? This Easy Coconut Lentil Curry is not just a dish; it's a warm embrace of flavors that promises to delight and satisfy. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a mere 30 minutes of cooking, you can whip up a comforting meal that serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Packed with protein-rich red lentils and creamy coconut milk, this curry is a wholesome option that’s both vegan and gluten-free. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this vibrant dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, removing any debris or impurities.
- Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and curry powder to the onions, stirring continuously to prevent burning and to release the aromatic spices.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the rinsed red lentils to the liquid mixture, stirring to ensure even distribution.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
- Simmer the curry for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Check the lentils for tenderness. They should be soft and have absorbed most of the liquid.
- Season with salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the curry rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot with rice, naan bread, or your preferred accompaniment.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse red lentils thoroughly before cooking. This not only removes impurities but also helps achieve a smoother texture in your curry.
- Sautéing for Flavor: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. The longer you cook them until they’re golden, the more depth of flavor your curry will have.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like your curry with a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili when you add the garlic and curry powder.
- Consistency Control: If you prefer a thicker curry, let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking. Conversely, for a soupier consistency, add a bit more vegetable broth or coconut milk.
- Resting Time: Allow the curry to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and enhances the overall taste.
- Serving Suggestions: This curry pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, quinoa, or warm naan bread. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 0mg
