This Vegan Lentil Curry is a tasty and filling dish with tender lentils and warm spices. It’s simple to make and perfect for a hearty, healthy meal any day of the week.
I like to add a bit of coconut milk for creaminess. Sometimes I slow down just to enjoy the rich aroma filling my kitchen!
If you want, serve it over rice or with crusty bread. It’s a quick way to make a satisfying dinner that’s good for you too.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Red lentils: These cook quickly and get soft, creating a hearty texture. I suggest rinsing them well before cooking to remove dust. If you don’t have red lentils, try yellow lentils—they’re similar but take a bit longer to cook.
Coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness. Use full-fat coconut milk for richer flavor, or a light version if you want fewer calories. Dairy-free milk or cashew cream are decent substitutes in a pinch.
Onion and garlic: These form the flavor base. Sauté until golden for the best taste. If you’re out, onion powder and garlic powder will do—just add a little more to taste.
Spices (curry powder, cumin, turmeric): These give the curry its warm, aromatic flavor. Adjust the spice amounts to suit your taste. Fresh ginger can replace ground ginger for a more vibrant punch.
How do I cook lentils so they don’t turn mushy?
Rinse lentils well and cook them in plenty of boiling water. Check them after 15 minutes; they should be tender but not falling apart. Drain excess water if needed. Overcooked lentils become mushy, so keep an eye on the time.
- Start with a rolling boil, then reduce to simmer to prevent breaking apart.
- Set a timer for 15-20 minutes, depending on lentil type.
- Remove from heat once tender and use immediately to keep texture perfect.
How to Make Vegan Lentil Curry?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes. Cooking: 30 minutes. Total time: 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and ginger, cook for 1 minute.
2. Add Spices and Tomatoes
Mix in cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute. Pour in diced tomatoes and stir well. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add Lentils and Broth
Add rinsed lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Simmer the Curry
Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally. Lentils should be tender and the sauce slightly thickened.
5. Finish and Serve
Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with rice or bread. Enjoy your hearty vegan lentil curry!
