Description
A creamy and flavorful red lentil curry that’s easy to make and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup red lentils (rinsed thoroughly)
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or light olive oil)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 inch ginger (fresh, grated)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (toasted)
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups water or broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, at the end)
- 0 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
- Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Cook for about 1 minute until you smell the fragrant aroma of garlic and ginger.
- Stir in the toasted cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric, and chili powder. Toast the spices for about 30 seconds until aromatic, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in the water or broth and bring to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, add the rinsed lentils and stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer gently uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The lentils should be tender but still hold their shape, and the sauce will start to thicken.
- Taste the curry and adjust seasoning if needed. If using, stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and squeeze in fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Let the curry rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the warm lentil curry with rice or flatbread, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the creamy, textured dish with its rich aroma and vibrant color.
Notes
- This curry pairs well with rice or flatbread for a complete meal.
- Adjust the spices according to your preference for heat and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg