Spicy Lentils Recipe
🕒 Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
🥣 Servings: 12
Description:
Make and share this delicious Spicy Lentils recipe that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a healthy weeknight meal. Packed with flavor, these lentils are simmered to perfection in a fragrant blend of spices, creating a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒
- 2 onions, finely chopped 🧅
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced 🧄
- Salt and black pepper, to taste 🧂
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin 🌿
- 2 teaspoons curry powder 🍛
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander 🌿
- 2 1/2 cups water 💧
- 2 cups chicken broth 🍗
- 2 cups dried red lentils, rinsed and drained 🍛
- 3 bay leaves 🍃
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt 🥛
- 1 cup tomato puree 🍅
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Saute Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions, minced ginger, and a dash of salt & pepper. Cook, covered, for about 10 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. |
| 2 | Add Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, curry powder, and ground coriander. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant and blend with the onions and ginger. |
| 3 | Combine Liquid and Lentils: Pour in the water and chicken broth. Add the rinsed red lentils and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil. |
| 4 | Simmer Lentils: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the lentils simmer gently for approximately 2 hours. Stir occasionally and check for desired tenderness. The lentils should be soft and the liquid absorbed. |
| 5 | Finish with Yogurt and Tomato Puree: Once the lentils are tender, remove the bay leaves. Stir in the plain yogurt and tomato puree, allowing the flavors to meld together. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. |
| 6 | Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Spicy Lentils hot, garnished with a dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lemon juice. These lentils are great on their own, with rice, or alongside warm naan bread. Enjoy the comforting flavors and nutritious goodness! |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 165.4
- Fat: 2.6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Cholesterol: 2.6mg
- Sodium: 145.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 25.6g
- Fiber: 10.7g
- Sugar: 3.7g
- Protein: 10.5g
Recipe Notes:
- Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking! Add diced vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, include a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. These lentils also freeze well for longer-term storage.
- Serve with: Enjoy these Spicy Lentils with a side of fluffy basmati rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. A fresh salad on the side makes for a complete and satisfying meal.
With its rich blend of spices and creamy texture from the yogurt and tomato puree, these Spicy Lentils are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a lentil lover or new to this nutritious legume, this recipe promises a delightful and comforting dining experience! 🌿🍲
