Imagine a warm, creamy stew that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of India, packed with nutrition and bursting with flavor. This Curried Red Lentil Sweet Potato Stew is not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes, the protein-rich red lentils, and a symphony of aromatic spices that will make your kitchen smell like a gourmet paradise. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who loves soul-warming dishes, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 sweet potatoes, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the sweet potatoes are peeled and diced into small, even pieces for even cooking.
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of curry powder, stirring well to coat the onions and garlic. Allow the spices to toast for about 1 minute, enhancing their flavors.
- Next, add 1 cup of red lentils to the pot, stirring to combine with the onion and spice mixture.
- Incorporate the diced sweet potatoes into the pot, mixing them well with the lentils and spices.
- Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
- After 20 minutes, stir in 1 can of coconut milk, mixing thoroughly to create a creamy texture. Allow the stew to heat through for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season the stew with salt to taste, adjusting as necessary to enhance the flavors.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the curried red lentil sweet potato stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious Indian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Ingredient Prep is Key: Cut your sweet potatoes into uniform, small cubes to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the stew.
- Spice Toasting Technique: When adding curry powder, take a moment to toast it in the oil with onions and garlic. This simple step intensifies the spice's flavor and aroma.
- Liquid Ratio Matters: Don't be afraid to adjust the vegetable broth or coconut milk slightly. If you prefer a thicker stew, reduce the liquid; for a more soup-like consistency, add a bit more.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your stew with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch for meal prep.
- Dietary Adaptations: This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for various dietary needs.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg
