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Coconut Lentil Curry

Irresistibly Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry: Easy Vegan Comfort

Discover the warming flavors of this Coconut Lentil Curry, a satisfying vegan dish that’s quick and easy to make.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dump Cake
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • large skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Curry Base

  • 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil Substitute with vegetable oil or ghee if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds Freshly ground spices deliver better flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Seeds Ground coriander can be used as an alternative.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Finely chopped.
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes Canned or fresh depending on availability.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger Freshly grated is best.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Optional, but enhances richness.
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Adjust to taste.

For the Lentils

  • 1 cup Dried Green Lentils Avoid red lentils as they cook faster.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Powder Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
  • 4 cups Water Add more if needed during cooking.
  • 1 can Coconut Milk Essential for creaminess.

For the Garnish

  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Can substitute with regular diced tomatoes.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro For garnish.

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • In a large skillet, warm the coconut oil over medium-high heat until it melts and shimmers.
  • Add the cumin and coriander seeds, toasting them for about 45 seconds until fragrant.
  • Incorporate the finely chopped garlic, cooking for 2 minutes until lightly browned and aromatic.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, grated ginger, turmeric, and sea salt, cooking for 5 minutes.
  • Add the dried green lentils, cayenne powder, and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cover.
  • Let it simmer for 35–40 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding more water if needed until the lentils are tender.
  • Once thickened, stir in coconut milk and cherry tomatoes. Let it return to a gentle simmer.
  • Remove from heat, stir in chopped fresh cilantro, and serve warm.

Notes

Optional: Serve with fluffy basmati rice for a complete meal.
Keyword Coconut Lentil Curry, comfort food, Easy Dinner, Healthy Recipe, Spicy Curry, Vegan Curry