A quick, creamy one-pot curry that's ready in 30 minutes. Red lentils, coconut milk, and warming spices create a satisfying weeknight meal.
## The Perfect Weeknight Dinner This creamy, warming curry comes together in one pot and requires minimal prep. Red lentils cook in just 15 minutes, making this a true quick meal. ## Ingredients **Base**: - 1 cup red lentils, rinsed - 1 can (14oz) coconut milk - 2 cups vegetable broth - 1 can (14oz) diced tomatoes **Aromatics**: - 1 onion, diced - 4 garlic cloves, minced - 1 inch ginger, grated - 2 tbsp curry powder - 1 tsp cumin - ½ tsp turmeric - ¼ tsp cayenne (optional) **Vegetables**: - 2 cups spinach or kale - 1 bell pepper, diced - Salt and pepper to taste **Garnish**: - Fresh cilantro - Lime wedges - Coconut yogurt (optional) ## Instructions ### Step 1: Sauté Aromatics (5 min) Heat 2 tbsp oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onion, cook until softened (3 min). Add garlic, ginger, and spices. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant. ### Step 2: Add Liquids and Lentils (2 min) Pour in coconut milk, broth, and tomatoes. Add lentils. Stir well. ### Step 3: Simmer (15 min) Bring to boil, then reduce heat. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender. ### Step 4: Add Vegetables (5 min) Stir in bell pepper and greens. Cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. ### Step 5: Serve Serve over rice, quinoa, or with naan. Top with cilantro, lime juice, and coconut yogurt. ## Nutrition Per Serving (Makes 4 servings) - Calories: 385 - Protein: 15g - Carbs: 42g - Fat: 18g - Fiber: 12g - Iron: 35% DV ## Variations **Thai-Style**: Use Thai red curry paste instead of curry powder. Add lemongrass. **Moroccan**: Replace curry powder with ras el hanout. Add chickpeas and apricots. **Indian-Style**: Add garam masala and finish with kasuri methi (dried fenugreek). ## Storage Refrigerate up to 5 days. Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thickens when cooled - add splash of water when reheating. ## Tips for Success 1. **Don't skip rinsing lentils** - removes excess starch 2. **Toast spices briefly** - unlocks deeper flavors 3. **Use full-fat coconut milk** - creates creamier texture 4. **Add greens at the end** - prevents overcooking 5. **Let it rest 5 minutes** - flavors meld together