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Hearty Lentil Curry

Featured in Veggie meals full of flavor.

This veggie curry blends the creamy sweetness of lentils and coconut milk with the rich flavors of Indian spices. It's a complete meal that's perfect for the whole family.

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Maria from tastyhush
Updated on Sat, 08 Mar 2025 22:21:45 GMT
A bowl of white rice served with lentil curry and fresh coriander on top. Pin it
A bowl of white rice served with lentil curry and fresh coriander on top. | Tasteofsavor.com

This warming lentil curry started as a simple winter evening creation, combining pantry staples into something truly special. The gentle richness of coconut milk paired with aromatic spices creates an inviting aroma that fills the kitchen with promise of comfort and flavor.

A Nutritious Comfort Classic

Perfect for busy weeknights, this curry transforms humble lentils into an exotic dish as vegetables slowly meld into the creamy sauce. The coconut milk creates a silky texture that coats every grain of rice, making this a satisfying meal that the whole family enjoys.

Essential Ingredients

  • Lentils: French green lentils for their perfect texture and earthy flavor.
  • Liquid Base: Homemade vegetable stock and full-fat coconut milk.
  • Vegetables: Fresh seasonal market produce.
  • Spices: A carefully balanced curry blend.
  • Seasonings: Quality tomato sauce and fresh garlic.

Cooking Method

Aromatic Base
Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
Adding Vegetables
Incorporate diced vegetables and allow them to absorb the spices.
Cooking Lentils
Add lentils and let them simmer in the seasoned broth.
Finishing Touch
Pour in coconut milk to create a rich, velvety sauce.
Un bol de lentilles vertes avec des carottes et des épinards, servi avec du riz blanc et garni de coriandre fraîche. Pin it
Un bol de lentilles vertes avec des carottes et des épinards, servi avec du riz blanc et garni de coriandre fraîche. | Tasteofsavor.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve this curry over fragrant basmati rice cooked with a bay leaf. A squeeze of fresh lime brightens all the flavors. For an authentic finish, garnish generously with fresh cilantro to add color and a burst of herbal freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I try other types of lentils?

Sure! Red lentils work well as a substitute for green lentils but need less time to cook. Black lentils are also a great choice.

→ How should I store this curry?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze it for two months.

→ Can I add more vegetables to the curry?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes, spinach, or chickpeas make great additions. Adjust the cooking time for the chosen veggies.

→ Is this curry very spicy?

This dish is mild, thanks to the coconut milk. Feel free to tweak the spice quantities to match your taste.

→ What’s the best rice to serve with this curry?

Basmati rice is a classic option, but you could also pair it with brown rice or quinoa for some extra protein.

Coconut Lentil Curry

A comforting veggie curry of green lentils simmered in coconut milk with fresh veggies and fragrant spices.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
45 Minutes
Total Time
60 Minutes
By: Maria

Category: Vegetarian

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Indian

Yield: 4 Servings (4 servings)

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 2 cups of coconut milk (500ml).
02 1 large zucchini.
03 3 medium-sized carrots.
04 1 yellow or white onion.
05 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric.
06 1/2 tsp ground coriander.
07 A pinch of cinnamon (about 1/4 tsp).
08 1/3 teaspoon of cumin powder.
09 A dash of salt and some black pepper.
10 250 grams of green lentils (about 1 1/4 cups).
11 4 cups of vegetable broth (600ml).
12 1 clove of garlic.
13 1 tablespoon of tomato paste.
14 1 teaspoon of curry powder.

Instructions

Step 01

Chop up the onion and garlic finely. Heat olive oil in a big skillet, toss in the onion and garlic, and cook them until soft.

Step 02

Mix in the tomato paste and your spices. Stir it all around for about five minutes. Then add the diced carrots and zucchini.

Step 03

Rinse the lentils well, throw them into the skillet along with the vegetable broth, and cook with the lid on for 20 minutes. After, pour in the coconut milk and let it all simmer for another 15-20 minutes.

Step 04

Check if the lentils are fully cooked and adjust the seasoning to your taste. Serve the curry with some basmati rice.

Notes

  1. This vegetarian curry is a protein-rich meal thanks to the lentils. The coconut milk makes it creamy and adds a hint of sweetness.

Tools You'll Need

  • A large skillet with a lid.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 420
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
  • Protein: 22 g