Red Lentil Curry

Do you have people in your life you like to swap recipes with? Maybe family, friends, or neighbours who like similar foods and meals as you? I am fortunate to have quite a few people...my aunt being one of them.

My aunt and uncle are vegetarian so when I came across this recipe and discovered how delicious it is, I was sure to pass it on. They loved it too!

This recipe was easy to make and I served it over rice with carrots and green beans for dinner. You could also serve it with pita bread as a dip if you are looking for a healthier appetizer. It made a large batch so I froze some to eat another time (I love doing this)!

Don’t turn away from this recipe because of the spice list. It calls for a few like garam masala and turmeric that you may not have at home. I recommend picking up small amounts of spices at a bulk store or the bulk sections at your local grocery store. You can purchase the amount you need for a recipe, it won’t break the bank and you won’t have a lot left over if you don’t like it or would only use it occasionally – now that’s a win, win, win!

Red Curry Lentils

Ingredients

• 1½ cups brown lentils, rinsed well
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• ½ tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• a few good shakes of cayenne pepper
• 1 14 ounce can tomato puree
• ¼ cup coconut milk
• cilantro for garnishing (optional- but highly recommended)

Instructions

• Cook the lentils according to directions. Drain and set aside.
• Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium high heat. Add the onion and saute for a few minutes until fragrant and golden.

• Add all the spices (curry paste, garam masala, curry powder, turmeric, cayenne, sugar, garlic, ginger) and stir fry for 1-2 minutes. Add the tomato sauce; stir  until mixed well.

• Add the lentils and the coconut milk. Stir to combine and simmer for another 15-20 minutes (the longer, the better)!
• Serve over rice and garnish with cilantro.

Enjoy!
Shannon RD
Registered Dietitian 

Original recipe from http://pinchofyum.com/red-curry-lentils