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:

  1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using), and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  4. Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot, followed by the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
  5. 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.
  6. Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
  7. Season the curry with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. 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.

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