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Red Lentil Curry Recipe

Red Lentil Curry Recipe

This Red Lentil Curry is an easy-to-make, healthy, and flavorful dish packed with plant-based protein and aromatic spices. Perfect with basmati rice, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and ideal for any meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Gluten-Free, Indian, Vegan
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large pot for cooking lentils
  • Skillet for sautéing
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Knife and cutting board for chopping
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups red lentils
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 2 tablespoons curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
  • 1 14.25-ounce can tomato puree

Instructions
 

Prepare Lentils

  • Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.
  • In a large pot, combine lentils and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.

Sauté Onions

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Spices

  • Stir in the curry paste, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Lentils and Tomato Puree

  • Add the tomato puree to the skillet, mixing it with the spices and onions.
  • Stir in the cooked lentils and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Season and Serve

  • Add salt and sugar to taste. Adjust the consistency with additional water if needed.
  • Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.

Video

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Freezing: This curry freezes well! Keep it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Add Veggies: For a twist, add spinach, carrots, or peas during the simmering stage.
  • Make It Creamy: Stir in ½ cup of coconut milk for a creamy texture.
  • Adjust Spices: Customize the spice level by adding or reducing the chili powder.
Keyword Gluten-Free Curry, Healthy Curry, Plant-Based Dinner, Red Lentil Curry, Vegan Curry