Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry with Spinach
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked brown rice, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using), and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot, followed by the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the curry has thickened.
- Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Season the curry with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the creamy coconut lentil curry over cooked brown rice, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro.
Benefits of this Recipe:
- Protein-Packed: Red lentils provide a hearty dose of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Nutrient-Rich: Spinach adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, including iron and folate, to support overall health.
- Creamy Goodness: Coconut milk lends a luscious creaminess to the curry while offering healthy fats for satiety.
- Versatile and Flavorful: This curry is customizable to your taste preferences and can be spiced up or down according to your liking.
- Balanced Meal: Served with brown rice, this dish offers a balanced combination of complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber.
Nutritive Value (Per Serving – Estimated):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Vitamin A: 150% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 20% of the DV
- Calcium: 10% of the DV
- Iron: 25% of the DV
Dive into a bowl of wholesome goodness with this Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry with Spinach, a comforting and nourishing dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
May 29, 2024
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