How do I make tomato lentil curry from scratch?

To make tomato lentil curry, start by rinsing 1 cup of lentils (red or yellow) until water runs clear. Sauté finely chopped onions, garlic, and ginger in oil until golden. Add 2 cups of chopped tomatoes, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp coriander powder, and chili to taste. Pour in the lentils and 3 cups of water or broth, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are soft. Season with salt and garnish with fresh cilantro. This basic method yields a rich, flavorful curry perfect with rice or flatbreads.

What are the health benefits of tomato lentil curry?

Tomato lentil curry is a nutritious, protein-rich dish packed with dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Lentils provide plant-based protein that supports muscle repair and digestion, while tomatoes offer antioxidants like lycopene that may reduce inflammation. This curry is low in fat and naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets. Including spices such as turmeric and cumin can add digestive benefits and enhance metabolism, making tomato lentil curry a wholesome choice for balanced meals.

Can I make tomato lentil curry vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, tomato lentil curry is naturally vegan and gluten-free if you avoid adding any animal products or gluten-containing ingredients. Use vegetable oil and stock, and verify your spice blends do not contain gluten or additives. This curry relies on lentils, tomatoes, and spices, which are plant-based and gluten-free by nature. Always serve with gluten-free grains like rice or gluten-free flatbreads to keep the meal suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How can I adjust the spice level in tomato lentil curry?

To customize the spice level, start with mild spices like turmeric and cumin and add chili powder or fresh green chili gradually. For a mild curry, omit or reduce the chili and use mild paprika instead. For a spicier version, increase chili powder or add cayenne pepper. You can also balance heat by adding a splash of coconut milk or yogurt at the end to mellow the spiciness and add creaminess without changing the core flavors.

What are good side dishes to serve with tomato lentil curry?

Tomato lentil curry pairs well with steamed basmati rice, quinoa, or warm naan bread to soak up the sauce. Side salads with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, or mint yogurt raita complement the curry’s flavors and add cooling freshness. Roasted or sautéed vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, or green beans also make nutritious accompaniments. For a complete meal, consider serving a simple lentil soup or pickled chutneys alongside.

Tomato Lentil Curry Recipe With Bold Spices And Simple Ingredients

Name: Tomato Lentil Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium white or yellow onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 2 teaspoons ground turmeric; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 (15-ounce) cans of fire-roasted crushed tomatoes (or one can crushed and one can diced tomatoes); 1 (15-ounce) can coconut milk (divided); 1 small sweet potato (peeled and finely diced, about 1 1/2 cups or 8 ounces); 3 cups vegetable or chicken stock; 1 cup green or brown lentils (rinsed and picked over); salt to taste; freshly cracked black pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Description

🍅 Enjoy a nourishing tomato lentil curry rich in bold spices and simple wholesome ingredients.
🌿 This vegan, gluten-free recipe is packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium white or yellow onion (diced)

3 cloves garlic (minced)

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon ground coriander

1 tablespoon ground ginger

2 teaspoons ground turmeric

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 (15-ounce) cans of fire-roasted crushed tomatoes (or one can crushed and one can diced tomatoes)

1 (15-ounce) can coconut milk (divided)

1 small sweet potato (peeled and finely diced, about 1 1/2 cups or 8 ounces)

3 cups vegetable or chicken stock

1 cup green or brown lentils (rinsed and picked over)

salt to taste

freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1-Getting started with this tomato lentil curry is as easy as heating up a pot. Begin by rinsing your lentils to remove any debris, setting the stage for a smooth cook. This dish comes together in about 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

2-Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it softens and turns golden. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute to build that aromatic base.

3-Now, add the ground cumin, coriander, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; toast them for 1 minute to release their flavors. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, 2/3 cup of coconut milk, diced sweet potato, stock, and lentils, then stir everything well and bring to a simmer.

4-Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the lentils are tender and the mixture thickens nicely. Finally, season with salt and pepper, serve warm with rice or naan, and drizzle the remaining coconut milk on top along with fresh cilantro for a fresh finish. For a heartier meal, pair it with something like our sweet potato casserole recipe to enhance the flavors.

Notes

🌱 Use green or brown lentils for best texture; red lentils may become mushy.
🥬 Add leafy greens like baby spinach or kale before serving for extra nutrition.
🌶 Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to preference.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Curry
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: Indian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 11 g
Protein: 15 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: Tomato Lentil Curry, Vegan Curry, Spiced Lentil Soup, Healthy Curry Recipe