Spicy Red Lentil Curry

If you’re looking for a dish that warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas, you’ve come to the right place! This Spicy Red Lentil Curry is not only super creamy and cozy, but it also packs a punch with its vibrant spices. It’s one of those recipes that I turn to on busy weeknights or when I’m hosting family gatherings. Everyone loves a hearty curry, and this one is perfect for sharing!

What makes this recipe even better is how simple and wholesome the ingredients are. You’ll find that it’s easy to make, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, making it a great choice for everyone at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and flavorful spices appeal to both adults and kids alike.
• Make-Ahead: It stores beautifully in the fridge, so you can prepare a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
• Packed with Nutrition: Red lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this dish both healthy and filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Spicy Red Lentil Curry is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup (~190g) red lentils
• 4 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 inch piece of fresh ginger, finely minced
• 2 serrano peppers, finely minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp ground coriander
• 2 tsp curry powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp kosher salt, use more as needed
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 (13.5-ounce/400 ml) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 (14-ounce/400g) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

Variations

This Spicy Red Lentil Curry is flexible and can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Stir in some chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Swap the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, use fewer serrano peppers or replace them with sweet bell peppers for a milder flavor.
• Change the Legume: While red lentils create a creamy texture, feel free to experiment with yellow lentils or chickpeas for a different twist.
• Top It Off: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.

How to Make Spicy Red Lentil Curry

Step 1: Rinse and Soak the Lentils

Start by rinsing the red lentils in cold water until the water runs clear. Soaking them overnight or at least for 6 hours helps them cook faster and enhances nutrient absorption. This step is crucial for getting perfectly tender lentils!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add in your choice of avocado oil or olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the minced garlic, ginger, and serrano pepper. Cook these for about three minutes while stirring frequently—this will prevent your garlic from burning and infuse lovely flavors into the oil.

Step 3: Add Spices

Now it’s time to bring on the flavor! Add cumin, cayenne pepper, coriander, curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and black pepper to your skillet. Cook these aromatics for about 30 to 60 seconds until they become fragrant. This step really wakes up those spices!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Next up! Add in the soaked lentils along with crushed tomatoes and coconut milk. Mix everything well before reducing the heat to low. Cover the pan partially with a lid and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes until the lentils are soft and creamy. If they need more time after that? Just add a splash of water and give them another five minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once your lentils are cooked through, turn off the heat and stir in lemon juice along with chopped cilantro. Don’t forget to taste it—adjust salt if necessary!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Serve this flavorful curry warm alongside rice or flatbread. A little extra cilantro on top never hurts either! If you have leftovers (which I doubt!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Enjoy making this cozy Spicy Red Lentil Curry! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household too!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Red Lentil Curry

Cooking should be as enjoyable as it is delicious, and with these tips, you’ll create a mouthwatering curry that impresses every time!

• Soak the lentils: Soaking lentils not only shortens cooking time but also enhances nutrient absorption, making your dish healthier and more satisfying.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the number of serrano peppers or cayenne pepper. Remember, you can always add more heat later if desired!
• Stir frequently: During the early stages of cooking the aromatics, stirring prevents burning and ensures that all those lovely spices meld together beautifully.
• Check consistency: If your curry thickens too much before the lentils are fully cooked, adding a splash of water helps achieve the perfect creamy texture without losing flavor.
• Taste as you go: Always taste your curry during the cooking process to adjust seasoning. This allows you to fine-tune flavors to your personal preference.

How to Serve Spicy Red Lentil Curry

Presenting your Spicy Red Lentil Curry can turn a simple meal into an inviting feast. Here are some delightful ways to serve this warming dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a pop of color and enhances the freshness of the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows diners to add a tangy zing right before enjoying their meal.
• Chili flakes: For those who love extra heat, offering chili flakes lets everyone customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: The fluffy texture and fragrant aroma of basmati rice complement the creamy curry perfectly, making it an ideal base for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Naan bread: Soft naan is perfect for dipping into your curry, adding an authentic Indian touch to your meal while providing a satisfying contrast in texture.
• Cucumber raita: This cooling yogurt-based side dish balances out the spiciness of the curry with its refreshing cucumber and mint flavors.
• Steamed vegetables: Brightly colored steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans add nutritional value and visual appeal, creating a colorful plate.

Embrace these serving suggestions to elevate your Spicy Red Lentil Curry experience. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spicy Red Lentil Curry is perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Prepare a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the curry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the curry into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If the curry is too thick after reheating, add a splash of water or coconut milk to adjust the consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make Spicy Red Lentil Curry without coconut milk?

Yes! You can substitute coconut milk with vegetable broth or almond milk for a lighter option, although this may alter the creaminess.

What goes well with Spicy Red Lentil Curry?

This delicious curry pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or flatbread like naan or roti. Add a side salad for a fresh touch!

How long does Spicy Red Lentil Curry last in the fridge?

The curry can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I adjust the spice level of Spicy Red Lentil Curry?

Absolutely! You can lessen or omit the serrano peppers and cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder version of this dish.

Is Spicy Red Lentil Curry vegan-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based and features wholesome ingredients that are suitable for vegan diets.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this cozy Spicy Red Lentil Curry! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with spices and serving it to your loved ones. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home—happy cooking!