Lentil Spinach Curry with Coconut Rice
Nutrition-packed and delicious lentil spinach curry served alongside coconut rice.
Nutrition-packed and delicious lentil spinach curry served alongside coconut rice.
- 2 tsp olive oil
- pinch salt
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 lime (juiced)
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 jalapeno (seeded and finely chopped)
- 2 cups uncooked white jasmine rice
- water ((see instructions))
- (optional) 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- (optional) 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cups uncooked green lentils
- 1/2 large red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 inch ginger (peeled and grated or minced)
- 4 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp salt plus more to taste
- 1 cup diced tomatoes ((i used canned))
- 8 ounces fresh baby spinach ((about 8 cups loosely packed))
- 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened non-dairy milk ((see notes))
- Carbohydrate 0.309661538012759 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.675773075797166 g
- Fiber 0.07557692278701 g
- Protein 0.115973076742409 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0853449998601566 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (63g)
- Sodium 332.139249998278 mg
- Sugar 0.234084615225749 g
- Trans Fat 0.0342355768640523 g
- Calories 7 calories
Step-by-step
- Rinse the rice well. Add it to your rice cooker along with the rest of the rice ingredients, and enough water to reach level 3 in the rice cooker. Cook until done. If not using a rice cooker, or using a rice cooker without level markings, cook the rice with your usual method and amount of liquid, substituting the coconut milk for 1 and 1/4 cups of the water. Most rice packages will also include instructions. Do NOT make this with only the rice and coconut milk - you need to add water.
- Add the lentils to a saucepan along with enough water to cover them by several inches. Bring to a boil, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until tender and done to your liking. Drain the cooked lentils and set aside.
- Meanwhile, warm the olive oil over medium heat in a deep skillet, saucepan, or dutch oven. Add the red onion and cook until softened and slightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the cumin seeds and cook for about 1 minute. Add the garlic, jalapeno, and ginger, stir, and cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic and ginger are fragrant and slightly softened. Add the garam masala and cook for thirty seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon salt, lime juice, diced tomatoes, and coconut sugar, and reduce the heat a little bit. Cook for about 10 more minutes, until the tomatoes are starting to break down.
- Meanwhile, add the spinach to a food processor and pulse to chop it, scraping down the sides as needed. Add the non-dairy milk and pulse to combine, until the spinach is finely chopped but not pureed.
- Once the lentils and tomato mixture are both finished cooking, stir the lentils into the tomato mixture. Add the spinach mixture and stir well. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes or until the spinach is softened and bright green. Add more salt, pepper and lime juice to taste. Serve hot with a side of coconut rice.
A Busy Mom's Guide to a Delicious and Healthy Weeknight Meal: Lentil Spinach Curry with Coconut Rice
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Finding healthy, delicious meals that don't require hours in the kitchen is a constant challenge. That's why I've fallen head over heels for this Lentil Spinach Curry with Coconut Rice recipe. It's a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition, yet surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, even on a busy weeknight.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. I often adapt it based on what's on hand. Sometimes I add a handful of chopped cilantro for extra freshness, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick. The coconut rice is the perfect complement, providing a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that balances the savory curry beautifully. It's a complete meal in itself, packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins—everything a busy mom needs to fuel herself and her family.
Why this recipe is a lifesaver:
- Speed: The entire recipe, from prep to plate, takes about 30-40 minutes. That's a win in my book!
- Simplicity: The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward, making it perfect for even novice cooks.
- Health Benefits: Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you full and satisfied. Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals. And the coconut milk adds a touch of healthy fat and delicious creaminess.
- Deliciousness: Let's be honest, the taste is phenomenal! The combination of fragrant spices, creamy coconut, and tender lentils and spinach is truly irresistible.
Tips and Tricks for Weeknight Success:
- Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and measure out the spices on the weekend to save time during the week. You can even cook the lentils ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
- One-Pot Wonder: If you're short on dishes, try combining the curry and rice cooking in one pot (adjust water accordingly). This makes cleanup a breeze!
- Leftovers are a Blessing: This curry tastes even better the next day! Pack it for lunch or enjoy it as a quick and easy dinner.
- Customize it: Don't be afraid to experiment with different vegetables or spices. Add chickpeas, cauliflower, or other greens for extra nutrition and flavor.
This lentil spinach curry with coconut rice recipe has become a staple in my family's dinner rotation. It's a healthy, flavorful, and convenient meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself! This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, we can still nourish our bodies and souls with delicious, wholesome food.
I often find myself sharing this recipe with friends and family, and the response is always overwhelmingly positive. It’s become a go-to dish for potlucks and gatherings, always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a recipe that brings people together, fostering connection and shared enjoyment over a simple, yet extraordinary meal. So, give it a try. Share it with your loved ones. And most importantly, savor the moment of enjoying a delicious, healthy meal, knowing that you made it with love and care, even amidst your busy schedule.
