As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, there’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Spiced Lentil Curry to warm the soul. This dish, rich with vibrant colors and aromatic spices, is perfect for cozy family gatherings or a quiet evening at home. With each spoonful, you’ll be transported to a world of fragrant spices and heartwarming flavors. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together around the table, sharing stories and creating lasting memories. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to be a hit, no matter the occasion.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Naan bread, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the cumin seeds, ground turmeric, ground coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add the diced tomatoes and their juices to the pot, stirring well to combine with the spices and vegetables.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the curry has thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by warm naan bread.
Helpful Tips
- For a creamier curry, add a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
- Want more veggies? Add diced carrots, sweet potatoes, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of chili powder.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if the curry has thickened too much.
Pairings
This Spiced Lentil Curry pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or a side of cucumber raita. For a refreshing drink, consider a chilled glass of mango lassi.
I hope this Spiced Lentil Curry brings as much warmth and joy to your home as it does to mine. Share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram, and let us know how it turned out for you!
Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website at https://www.zynahz.com/. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and updates, and follow Zynahz on social media for more delicious inspiration.
