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Red Lentil Curry

This comforting red lentil curry features tender, creamy lentils simmered with aromatic spices, onions, garlic, and ginger until the flavors meld into a silky, fragrant sauce. The dish boasts a rustic, hearty texture with a warm, smoky aroma, perfect for a simple, satisfying meal served over rice or bread.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian, Middle Eastern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup red lentils rinsed until water runs clear
  • 2 tbsp oil vegetable or olive oil
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch ginger fresh, grated
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 4 cups water or broth vegetable or chicken
  • 1 squeeze lemon juice fresh
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Lemon squeezer

Method
 

  1. Start by rinsing the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear; set aside.
  2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring often, until it’s soft and translucent—about 5 minutes—filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.
  3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the onions. Cook for another minute until fragrant, hearing a gentle sizzle and noticing the mixture turning slightly golden.
  4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Toast the spices for about 30 seconds until they release a rich, smoky scent—this step deepens their flavor.
  5. Pour in the water or broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once bubbling, add the rinsed lentils and stir well.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the lentils simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The lentils will turn soft, and the sauce will thicken into a creamy, velvety consistency.
  7. Check the lentils; they should be tender and the sauce slightly thickened. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of hot water to loosen it up.
  8. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it sit for a few minutes to let flavors meld.
  9. Give the curry a final stir, taste again, and adjust seasoning if needed. It should be fragrant, smoky, and silky—ready to serve.
  10. Spoon the warm lentil curry into bowls and enjoy it over rice or with crusty bread for a comforting, honest meal.