Description
This Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry is a comforting, one-pot vegan dish made with red lentils, coconut milk, and warming spices. It’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor — perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 1/2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, to taste)
- 1 1/2 cups dried red lentils
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14-ounce) can coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or sugar, optional)
- Juice from 1/2 lime (plus more for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
- Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the curry powder, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using). Stir and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add the red lentils, crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft and the curry has thickened.
- Stir in salt, maple syrup (if using), and lime juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and additional lime wedges. Pair with cooked rice or naan.
Notes
- This curry thickens as it sits; add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture.
- Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing chili flakes.
- Great for meal prep — stores well in the fridge or freezer.
- You can substitute red lentils with yellow lentils, though cooking time may vary.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (without rice)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
