This Creamy Coconut & Red Lentil Curry is a nourishing and satisfying dish that brings together creamy coconut milk, protein-rich red lentils, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. Packed with cozy flavors, it’s both wholesome and delicious, and naturally vegan and gluten-free.
What makes it even better? With just 8 simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this flavorful curry comes together in 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal that’s sure to impress.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, finely minced
- ½ bunch cilantro, chopped (separate stems and leaves)
- 1 tablespoon salt-free curry powder
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1½ cups (309g) dry red lentils
- 1 can (13.5 oz / 398 ml) full-fat coconut milk
- 2 cups (470 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth + 2 cups water
Serving Suggestions:
- Cooked basmati or jasmine rice
- Naan or roti
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a large saucepan, heat a splash of vegetable broth or neutral oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, ginger, and cilantro stems to the pan, and sauté for another 1-2 minutes. Stir in the curry powder and cook for 1 more minute.
- Rinse the lentils briefly, then add them to the saucepan along with the coconut milk, vegetable broth, and water. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Serve the curry warm with rice or as desired. Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to one month.
NOTES
- Instant Pot Instructions: Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and follow steps 1-2 as written. After adding the lentils and liquids, press “Cancel” to stop sautéing. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 4 minutes. Allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure by covering the vent with a kitchen towel.
- Add-ins and Variations: This curry is a versatile base, perfect for adding extra vegetables like spicy peppers, carrots, potatoes, spinach, or mustard greens. Add the veggies with the garlic and ginger in step 2, and stir in any fresh greens just before finishing the simmer.