Coconut Milk Red Lentil Curry

This Coconut Milk Red Lentil Curry is a wonderfully flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With the creamy richness of coconut milk and the aromatic spices of curry paste, this recipe transforms simple red lentils into a delightful meal. The addition of fresh vegetables, lime juice, and coriander enhances the taste, making it a well-rounded dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, this curry is both comforting and nutritious.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Kcal: 300 kcal per serving
  • Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1 teaspoon curry paste
  • 1 can of coconut milk
  • 1 cube of homemade vegetable broth
  • 400 ml (1 3/4 cups) water
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 bunch of coriander, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • Olive oil, for frying
  • Cooked rice, to serve

Directions

  1. Heat Oil: Heat a bit of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger paste to the pot and sauté for another 2 minutes.
  3. Add Curry Paste: Stir in the curry paste and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the can of coconut milk, vegetable broth cube, and 400 ml of water. Stir well to combine.
  5. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped red bell pepper, salt, and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the red lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.
  7. Finish: Stir in the lime juice and chopped coriander, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Serve: Serve the red lentils over cooked rice.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side Dishes: Serve with naan bread or a side of sautéed greens for a complete meal.
  • Garnish: Top with additional fresh coriander or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added spice.

Cooking Tips

  • Curry Paste: Adjust the amount of curry paste according to your spice preference.
  • Consistency: If the curry is too thick, add a bit more water until you reach your desired consistency.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Red Lentils: High in protein and fiber, aiding in digestion and providing a good source of energy.
  • Coconut Milk: Adds healthy fats and a creamy texture.
  • Vegetables: Packed with vitamins and minerals, enhancing the overall nutritional profile of the dish.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Vegan: Yes
  • Gluten-Free: Yes

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: This curry can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: Simple steps with minimal preparation time.
  • Flavorful: Rich, aromatic spices combined with creamy coconut milk create a delicious and satisfying meal.
  • Nutritious: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy choice.

Conclusion

This Coconut Milk Red Lentil Curry is a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal rotation. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delightful dish and share your thoughts in the comments. Happy cooking!