Spinach Lentil Curry: 10 Flavorful Steps to Joyful Eating

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish—Spinach Lentil Curry! This isn’t just any curry; it’s a vibrant, nutritious powerhouse that warms your soul and fills your belly with goodness. I love how it combines earthy lentils with the freshness of spinach, making it not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. Seriously, whether you’re a busy professional or a parent juggling a million things, this recipe is your new best friend!

What I adore most about this dish is its versatility. You can whip it up in just about 40 minutes, and it’s so satisfying! The spices create an explosion of flavor that dances on your taste buds, and trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s vegan, so it fits perfectly into any diet while still being hearty enough to leave you feeling full and happy.

So if you’re looking for a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Spinach Lentil Curry is just the ticket. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils – I usually go for green or brown lentils, but feel free to use what you have on hand!
• 2 cups spinach, chopped – Fresh spinach works wonders, but you can use frozen if that’s what you’ve got!
• 1 onion, diced – This adds such a lovely sweetness once it’s sautéed!
• 2 tomatoes, chopped – They bring a nice juiciness to the curry!
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better, right?
• 1 inch ginger, grated – A little zing from the ginger goes a long way!
• 1 tsp cumin seeds – These little seeds are packed with flavor and aroma!
• 1 tsp turmeric powder – Not just for color; it’s got amazing health benefits too!
• 1 tsp coriander powder – Adds a warm, citrusy flavor that complements everything!
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder – Adjust this to your heat preference. I like it spicy!
• 2 tbsp oil – I often use coconut or olive oil, but any cooking oil will do!
• Salt to taste – Always season according to your palate!
• 2 cups water – This helps create the perfect consistency for your curry.

How to Prepare Spinach Lentil Curry

Step 1: Heat the Oil

First things first, let’s get that oil warming up! Heat 2 tablespoons of your favorite oil in a pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot but not smoking—just enough to give your spices a warm hug!

Step 2: Sauté Cumin Seeds

Now it’s time to add the cumin seeds! Toss them into the hot oil and let them splutter for about 30 seconds. This step is crucial because it releases those amazing flavors that will form the base of your curry. The aroma is just heavenly!

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Next, throw in the diced onion. Sauté it until it turns golden brown, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want it to get all sweet and caramelized—it makes such a difference!

Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger

Time to amp up the flavor! Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook them together for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. The smell will be incredible, trust me!

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes

Now, let’s add the chopped tomatoes. Cook them down until they become soft and mushy, which should take about 5-6 minutes. This juicy goodness will help create a rich sauce for your curry.

Step 6: Mix in Spices

It’s spice time! Sprinkle in the turmeric, coriander, and red chili powder. Stir everything together and let the spices toast for about a minute. This brings out their flavors even more, and your kitchen will smell like a dream!

Step 7: Add Lentils and Water

Now, let’s get those lentils in! Pour in 1 cup of lentils and 2 cups of water. Give it a good stir and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.

Step 8: Simmer for Tenderness

Let everything simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. You might want to check occasionally and add a bit more water if it looks too thick. We want that perfect curry consistency!

Step 9: Add Spinach

After your lentils are tender, it’s time to add the star of the show—spinach! Stir in the chopped spinach and let it cook for another 5 minutes. It’ll wilt down beautifully, adding color and nutrition to your dish.

Step 10: Season and Serve

Last but not least, season your curry with salt to taste. Give it a final stir and serve it hot! I love pairing it with rice or some warm naan. Enjoy every mouthful of this deliciousness!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about what makes this Spinach Lentil Curry not just tasty, but also nutritious! Each serving is packed with goodness, and here’s the estimated breakdown per cup:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 15g
• Protein: 12g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

This curry is a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier. Plus, it’s low in calories and free from cholesterol! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But trust me, you’re getting a wholesome meal that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Spinach Lentil Curry comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
• Nutritious Powerhouse: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a meal that nourishes your body and soul.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices creates a rich and aromatic dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite!
• Versatile: Enjoy it over rice, with naan, or even on its own—it’s delicious no matter how you serve it!
• Vegan and Gluten-Free: A fantastic option for anyone following a plant-based or gluten-free diet.
• Leftover Friendly: It tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Spinach Lentil Curry turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are my top tips to help you nail it:

• Adjust the Spices: Don’t be afraid to play with the spices! If you like it milder, reduce the red chili powder, or if you want more heat, add a pinch of cayenne. Taste as you go and adjust to your liking!
• Rinse Your Lentils: Always give your lentils a good rinse before cooking. This helps remove any dirt or debris and can also improve their texture in the final dish.
• Check for Tenderness: Lentils can vary in cooking time depending on their age and type. Keep an eye on them while they simmer and taste-test to ensure they’re tender but not mushy.
• Don’t Skimp on the Garlic and Ginger: These two ingredients add so much depth and flavor to the curry. If you love their taste like I do, consider adding a bit more!
• Experiment with Greens: While spinach is fantastic, feel free to mix in other greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different twist. Just add them in the last few minutes of cooking.
• Make it Creamy: If you want to add a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt just before serving. It adds a lovely richness!
• Leftovers Bliss: This curry tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and let the flavors meld in the fridge overnight.

With these tips, you’ll be a Spinach Lentil Curry pro in no time! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers of your Spinach Lentil Curry! I always find it a shame to waste any food, especially when it tastes so good. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:

• Store in an Airtight Container: Once your curry has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep it from drying out and preserves all those wonderful flavors!
• Refrigerate: Your Spinach Lentil Curry can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly to maintain its freshness!
• Freezing for Later: If you want to save some for a longer period, this curry freezes beautifully! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a comforting meal, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.

When it comes time to reheat, you have a couple of options:

• Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, pop your curry in the microwave! Just cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel and heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: For the best flavor, I recommend reheating it on the stovetop. Pour it into a saucepan over medium heat, and stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. You might need to add a splash of water to loosen it up a bit if it’s thickened.

And there you have it! With these easy storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Spinach Lentil Curry multiple times without sacrificing any of that deliciousness. Happy eating!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of lentils?
Absolutely! While I usually stick with green or brown lentils for this Spinach Lentil Curry, you can experiment with red lentils too. They cook faster and will give you a creamier texture. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they can get mushy more quickly!

What can I substitute for spinach?
If you’re not a fan of spinach or just want a change, kale or Swiss chard works wonderfully! Just chop them up and add them in the same way you would with spinach. They’ll add a lovely depth to the curry, plus a bit of a different texture!

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, you can definitely amp up the spice! Add more red chili powder or toss in some chopped fresh chilies when you’re sautéing the onions. You could also sprinkle in a bit of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Just adjust to your taste!

Can I make this curry ahead of time?
Yes, yes, yes! In fact, I think it tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Just store it in the fridge, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go!

What’s the best way to serve this curry?
I love serving my Spinach Lentil Curry hot over a bed of fluffy rice or with warm naan for dipping. You could even enjoy it on its own as a hearty soup! Feel free to garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for that extra zing!

Spinach Lentil Curry: 10 Flavorful Steps to Joyful Eating

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• Author: Louna
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A nutritious and flavorful spinach lentil curry.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup lentils
• 2 cups spinach, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water

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Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add onion and sauté until golden brown.
4. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
6. Mix in turmeric, coriander, and red chili powder.
7. Add lentils and water, bringing to a boil.
8. Reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender.
9. Add spinach and cook for another 5 minutes.
10. Season with salt and serve hot.

Notes

• Adjust spices according to your taste.
• Serve with rice or bread.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 15g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Spinach Lentil Curry