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Creamy Lentil Curry with Coconut Milk

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  • Author: saadia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A rich and velvety red lentil curry simmered in creamy coconut milk, flavored with warm spices and aromatics.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup vegetable broth or water
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add garlic and ginger; cook another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and chili flakes; cook 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
  4. Add tomato paste and stir to combine.
  5. Add red lentils, coconut milk, and broth. Stir, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and curry thickens.
  7. Season with salt and lemon juice; adjust to taste.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve over rice or with naan.

Notes

  • To make it spicier, add more chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper.
  • Use light coconut milk for a lower‑fat version.
  • Let curry rest a few minutes off the heat—the sauce will thicken further.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg