If you're on the hunt for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal that will tantalize your taste buds, look no further than this Vegan Red Lentil Curry! Bursting with rich flavors and creamy coconut goodness, this Indian-inspired dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein and fiber. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a comforting bowl of curry that will impress your family and friends alike. Ready to dive into a world of aromatic spices and vibrant colors? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of rinsed red lentils, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 inch of grated ginger, 1 can of coconut milk, 2 cups of vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon of curry powder, salt to taste, and fresh cilantro for garnish.
- In a large pot or saucepan, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot, stirring continuously for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Sprinkle in the curry powder, stirring well to combine with the onion, garlic, and ginger mixture. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to release their flavor.
- Pour in the rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Stir everything together until well mixed. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the curry has thickened. If it becomes too thick, you can add a bit more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once cooked, season the curry with salt to taste. Stir well to combine the flavors.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
- Serve the vegan red lentil curry hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. It pairs beautifully with rice or naan, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tips
- Rinse the Lentils: Always rinse your red lentils under cold water before cooking to remove any impurities and excess starch, ensuring a cleaner taste and better texture.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your curry with a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped green chilies along with the garlic and ginger for an extra layer of heat.
- Consistency Matters: If your curry becomes too thick during cooking, simply add more vegetable broth or water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Flavor Boost: For an added depth of flavor, try sautéing a teaspoon of mustard seeds or cumin seeds in the oil before adding the onions. This will infuse the oil with aromatic spices.
- Garnish Generously: Don't skip the fresh cilantro garnish! It not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the curry, making each bite even more delightful.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your vegan red lentil curry with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg
