
Vegan Spinach and Lentil Curry
5/5
This Vegan Spinach and Lentil Curry is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s rich in flavor and loaded with plant-based goodness. The combination of lentils, spinach, and aromatic spices makes it a satisfying and wholesome meal.
INGREDIENTS
For the Curry:
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Cooked rice or naan bread for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
Cooking the Lentils:
- In a large saucepan, combine the lentils with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set the lentils aside.
Making the Curry:
- In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the curry powder, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked lentils and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the curry and stir to combine.
TIPS
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.
- You can use canned, pre-cooked lentils to save time.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added texture and nutrition.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: Approx. 300 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 8g
- Fat: 16g
- Vitamin A: 60% DV
- Vitamin C: 40% DV
- Iron: 20% DV