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Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry Recipe Easy Dairy-Free Wholesome Meal

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A rich, velvety, and cozy dairy-free lentil curry made with red lentils and full-fat coconut milk, perfect for a wholesome and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (200g) red lentils, rinsed well
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil (such as sunflower or avocado oil)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear and set aside.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Toast the spices with the aromatics for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Add the rinsed lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth or water to the pot. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid slightly ajar. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft and curry is creamy. Add water or broth if too thick.
  7. Stir in garam masala, salt to taste, and fresh lime juice. Simmer uncovered for another 2-3 minutes.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Use full-fat coconut milk for best creaminess. Rinse lentils thoroughly to avoid gummy texture. Toast spices lightly to unlock flavors without burning. Adjust thickness with broth or water as needed. Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. For protein boost, add cooked chickpeas or tofu near the end. Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: coconut lentil curry, dairy-free curry, vegan curry, easy lentil recipe, creamy coconut curry, gluten-free, plant-based meal

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/creamy-coconut-lentil-curry-recipe-easy-dairy-free-wholesome-meal/