Curries, including this coconut curry, are super easy to make and almost impossible to mess up since everything goes into the same pot. The most challenging part is getting the spices just right, which I have already done for you. However, my favorite thing about this red lentil curry recipe is that it transforms lentils and a head of cauliflower into a huge pot of creamy, delicious nourishment.
Lentils are a type of legume, or bean, and are part of the same family as other legumes like black beans, kidney beans and garbanzo beans. These highly nutritious legumes are relatively small in size—but not in benefits. Lentils provide us with fiber, molybdenum, folate, iron, protein, thiamine and potassium. Lentils are especially beneficial in protecting our heart, keeping our energy levels balanced and high, and maintaining a healthy digestive tract.
Another health benefit of this curry is due to the turmeric, one of the key spices in this dish, which provides promising cancer-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties. Chinese and Indian medical systems have long used turmeric to relieve inflammation, strengthen immune functions and improve digestion. Turmeric has also been used in Chinese and Indian medicine to treat a wide range of conditions such as menstrual cramps, ulcers, toothache, chest pain and headaches. Although science hasn’t proven the connection between turmeric and the treatment of certain conditions, there is promising research which suggests turmeric’s ability to fight off cancer and inflammation. Either way, it can’t hurt to try adding this powerful spice into your meals for both the flavor and the suggested benefits.
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook onion, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes or until translucent and soft. Add in garlic and ginger and cook for another 2 minutes stirring occasionally. Add in spices and lentils and stir until everything is well coated with the spices, about 30 seconds.
Stir in vegetable broth and coconut milk and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes. Lentils will cook and start to thicken the sauce.
Add carrots, cauliflower, tomatoes, salt and pepper, and cook covered for 10-15 minutes until vegetables are cooked through.
Garnish with cilantro and serve with whole grain rice or naan bread
Recipe Note: Almost every curry powder is different. The spices are most likely the same between brands but the amount of the different spices is going to vary. I suggest you look at the container of curry powder you bought to see what the recommended serving amount would be. For instance, my container of curry powder had a curry recipe listed on the side and I used that amount in the curry recipe I was making. If you are completely unsure, start with 1 tablespoon and then add more later depending on your preferred taste. Curry powders most likely will contain turmeric, cinnamon and cumin, so you don’t necessarily need to add any extra into this recipe but I think adding the additional spices makes for a much tastier dish. Enjoy!
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