Winter Vegetable Lentil Curry (Print version)

Hearty dish combining winter vegetables and lentils simmered in a fragrant spiced sauce.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
02 - 1 parsnip, peeled and diced
03 - 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed
04 - 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and cubed
05 - 1 cup cauliflower florets
06 - 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped

→ Lentils

07 - 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed

→ Aromatics & Base

08 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
11 - 1 can (13.5 fl oz) diced tomatoes
12 - 1 can (13.5 fl oz) coconut milk
13 - 3 cups vegetable broth

→ Spices

14 - 2 tbsp curry powder
15 - 1 tsp ground cumin
16 - 1 tsp ground coriander
17 - 1/2 tsp turmeric
18 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
19 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ For Serving

20 - Fresh cilantro, chopped
21 - Cooked rice or naan (optional)

# How To Make It:

01 - Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and sauté the onion for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
02 - Incorporate garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and optional cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute to release aromas.
04 - Stir in carrot, parsnip, sweet potato, butternut squash, and cauliflower, coating them evenly with the spices.
05 - Pour in diced tomatoes, coconut milk, vegetable broth, and rinsed lentils. Stir thoroughly to combine.
06 - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables and lentils are tender and sauce thickens.
07 - Stir in spinach and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
08 - Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and accompanied by rice or naan if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It’s a warming hug in a bowl, packed with seasonal vegetables and protein to keep you satisfied.
  • The blend of spices is like a little secret that turns everyday ingredients into something magical.
02 -
  • Don’t skip rinsing your lentils thoroughly; it helps keep the curry from getting too thick and gritty.
  • Adding spinach at the end preserves its vibrant color and fresh flavor, transforming the dish beautifully.
03 -
  • Toast your spices gently to bring out their oils and elevate the flavor immensely.
  • Simmer uncovered to let the curry thicken naturally without losing that fresh vegetable bite.