Hearty Lentil Curry:
A Budget-Friendly, Protein-Packed Meal

Craving a cozy, nourishing meal that’s easy on the wallet? This Hearty Lentil Curry is packed with bold flavors, plant-based protein, and warming spices. It’s the perfect budget-friendly dinner or meal-prep lunch, made with pantry staples like lentils, tomatoes, and coconut milk. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this one-pot dish is both effortless and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly & Nutritious: Lentils are affordable, packed with protein, and loaded with fiber.
• Rich & Flavorful: A perfect blend of aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and hearty lentils.
• One-Pot Simplicity: Easy cleanup and minimal effort for a wholesome meal.
• Great for Meal-Prep: Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for make-ahead lunches.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

For the Curry:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 handful fresh spinach (optional)
• Juice of ½ lemon

For Serving:

• Cooked rice or naan
• Fresh cilantro
• Red pepper flakes (for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
2. Toast the Spices:
   Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and smoked paprika. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Lentils:
   Pour in the lentils, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer Until Tender:
   Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and the curry has thickened.
5. Final Touches:
   Stir in fresh spinach (if using) and let it wilt. Squeeze in lemon juice and adjust salt to taste.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
   Ladle the curry over rice or serve with warm naan. Garnish with fresh cilantro and red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 6g

Why This Recipe Works

This Hearty Lentil Curry is the ultimate budget-friendly comfort food, offering plant-based protein, rich flavor, and simple prep. With minimal ingredients and bold spices, it delivers a satisfying and wholesome meal every time.

Additional Tips & FAQs

• Can I use canned lentils?
  Yes! Reduce the cooking time to 10-15 minutes and use only 1 cup of broth.
• How long does it keep?
  Stored in an airtight container, this curry lasts up to 5 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
• Can I make it spicier?
  Absolutely! Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes.

Let’s Stay Connected!

Tried this Hearty Lentil Curry? Snap a photo and tag @BlomBites on Instagram—I’d love to see your cozy bowl of goodness!

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