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Vegetarian

Red Lentil Coconut Curry with Spinach and Coriander

A velvety, golden lentil curry perfumed with toasted spices, coconut milk and fresh ginger, finished with wilted spinach and bright coriander.

40 min4 servingsEasyVegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1,5 cup red lentils
  • 400 ml full-fat coconut milk
  • 3 cup vegetable stock
  • 1 unit large onion, diced
  • 4 unit garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 4 cup baby spinach
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 0,5 cup fresh coriander, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Rinse 1½ cups (300 g) red lentils under cold water until it runs clear; drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    Heat 2 tbsp coconut oil in a heavy pot over medium heat. Add 1 tsp cumin seeds and 1 tsp mustard seeds; toast for 45 seconds until they crackle and release aroma.

  3. 3

    Add 1 large diced onion and cook 5-6 minutes until edges turn golden. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger; cook 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Add 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp curry powder, 1 tsp ground turmeric, and ½ tsp cayenne. Toast for 90 seconds, stirring constantly, until the paste darkens and separates from the oil.

  5. 5

    Pour in 1 can (400 ml) full-fat coconut milk and 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable stock. Whisk smooth and bring to a gentle simmer.

  6. 6

    Add the lentils, reduce to low, and simmer uncovered for 18-22 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils break down into a creamy purée.

  7. 7

    Stir in 4 cups (120 g) baby spinach and the juice of 1 lemon; cook 2 minutes until fully wilted. Season with 1½ tsp salt or to taste.

  8. 8

    Ladle into bowls and top with a swirl of coconut milk, ½ cup chopped fresh coriander, and a scattering of chili flakes.

Chef's tip

Bloom the spice paste in oil until it darkens and the oil separates around it — this step, called bhuna, unlocks deep aromatic layers you can't get by just simmering the spices in liquid.

Suggested pairing

Serve over fluffy basmati rice with warm naan and a cucumber-yogurt raita on the side.

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