Indian Lentil & Spinach Curry

Indian Lentil & Spinach Curry: A Hearty and Wholesome Delight 🍲🌿🌶️

1. Introduction

Welcome to a culinary journey to India with our delightful Indian Lentil & Spinach Curry recipe! This dish is not only packed with flavor but also boasts incredible health benefits. The combination of protein-rich lentils and nutrient-dense spinach makes it a perfect meal for any day of the week. Craving a simple yet satisfying dinner? This Indian lentil spinach curry recipe is your answer. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner eager to explore the world of culinary arts with simple recipes, this guide will walk you through each step to create a restaurant-quality lentil spinach curry right in your own kitchen.

This vegan lentil curry is easy to adapt to your taste, and it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a versatile option for various dietary needs. The beauty of a great dinner lies within its simplicity and healthiness. If you’re looking for more healthy dinner options, feel free to check out our collection of dinner recipes . Get ready to enjoy a bowl of comforting and delicious Indian curry with lentils! And the best part? You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. This recipe is also a great way to introduce yourself to a vegetarian lifestyle. This is great to also pair with our Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad for a filling nutritious meal.

2. Understanding the Key Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the stars of our Indian lentil spinach curry recipe. Lentils form the base of this dish, offering a hearty and wholesome foundation. There are different types of lentils and for this recipe, brown or green lentils are the best option. Spinach adds a vibrant color and a boost of vitamins and minerals. Did you know spinach is also very low in calories? The blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala delivers a symphony of flavors that define Indian curry with lentils. Don’t forget the importance of fresh ingredients like onions, garlic, and ginger, which provide a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste of our lentil spinach curry. If you are running low on garlic, check out our easy Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Mash for more recipes.

3. Gathering Your Equipment

To prepare this Indian lentil spinach curry recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. A large pot or Dutch oven is perfect for simmering the curry. You’ll also need a good quality knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables. Make sure your knife is sharp to have clean cuts while chopping. Measuring spoons and cups will help you accurately add the spices and liquids. Accuracy is key when it comes to spices. Finally, a ladle will be useful for serving this flavorful vegan lentil curry. Alternatively if you like potatoes more, check out Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes for more recipes.

4. Step-by-Step Recipe: Making Indian Lentil & Spinach Curry

Cooking the Base

First, heat some oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This forms the aromatic base of our Indian lentil spinach curry recipe, crucial for developing depth of flavor. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this step is simply divine!

Adding Lentils, Tomatoes and Spices

Next, add the lentils (pre-rinsed), diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder (if using), and salt to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Pour in the vegetable broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. This step is essential for creating a rich and flavorful lentil spinach curry as the lentils absorb the spices and tomatoes. While you are waiting for the lentil, take a look at these recipes!

Incorporating Spinach

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the fresh spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt into the curry, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The spinach not only adds nutritional value but also a vibrant green color to the Indian lentil spinach curry recipe. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure the spinach cooks evenly. If you love spinach, you can always add more for extra flavor and vitamins!

Final Touches and Simmering

Now, add the garam masala and lemon juice to brighten the flavors of the Indian lentil spinach curry. Stir well and let the curry simmer for another 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious and delicious dish. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If needs more acid, add more lemon juice!

5. Serving Suggestions

Your Indian lentil spinach curry recipe is now complete! Serve it hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and a dollop of yogurt or coconut cream for extra richness. This lentil spinach curry pairs perfectly with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. If you want to indulge, try it with all three! It’s also a fantastic dish to meal prep as the flavors deepen over time. For another serving suggestion, check out this similar Indian Lentil Curry Recipe.

6. Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Curry

To make your Indian lentil spinach curry recipe even better, consider these tips. Soaking the lentils for 30 minutes before cooking can reduce cooking time and improve their texture. Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your spice preference. If you want a creamier curry, add a can of coconut milk during the final simmering stage. You can even try a vegan coconut milk version. Experiment with different types of lentils to find your favorite variation of this vegan lentil curry. Maybe red lentils will peak your interest!

7. Health Benefits of Lentil and Spinach Curry

This Indian lentil spinach curry is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and iron. Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. Together, they create a meal that supports heart health, improves digestion, and boosts your immune system. Including this Indian curry with lentils in your diet is a great way to enjoy a wholesome and balanced meal. And if you are on a diet, look no further! It’s relatively low in calories and packed with nutrients! For another great recipe with a similar profile, take a look at our Coconut Curry Soup.

8. Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this Indian lentil spinach curry recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, or peas to make it even heartier. Adding roast potatoes can bring a very hearty touch. For a non-vegan version, you can add a touch of cream or ghee. You can also adjust the spices to suit your taste, adding more or less of certain spices to create your perfect lentil spinach curry.

If you’re looking to explore more flavors, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone, or a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. Fresh ginger can also provide a zestier kick compared to ground ginger. The possibilities are truly endless! Alternatively, if you like eggplants, you can try our baked eggplant parmesan!

9. Conclusion

Congratulations, you’ve successfully created a delicious and nutritious Indian lentil spinach curry recipe! This dish is a perfect blend of flavor and health, making it a great addition to your regular meal rotation. We hope you found this guide helpful and are inspired to continue exploring the wonderful world of Indian cuisine with your own personalized Indian curry with lentils. Happy cooking!

If you try this recipe and it goes well make sure to tag us under Spinach or Vegan. It would bring joy to our work here too! And lastly, if you enjoyed this recipe, why not try our Herb Crusted Cod?

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