Speedy Lentil Coconut Curry Rice
Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes
A quick and flavorful dish that combines lentils, coconut milk, and spices for a hearty meal.
This Speedy Lentil Coconut Curry Rice is perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and flavor, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also satisfying and nutritious.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy coconut milk adds richness to the dish
- Packed with protein and fiber from lentils
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
A Quick and Nutritious Meal
Speedy Lentil Coconut Curry Rice is the epitome of a quick yet nutritious meal. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of red lentils and coconut milk not only makes it creamy but also incredibly nourishing, providing a great balance of carbohydrates and protein.
This meal is not just quick to prepare; it's also packed with essential nutrients. Lentils are renowned for their high protein and fiber content, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to boost their diet with wholesome ingredients. Coupled with the healthy fats from coconut milk, this dish offers a well-rounded profile that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of Speedy Lentil Coconut Curry Rice is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or to use up ingredients you already have on hand. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or peas, to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Each addition can create a new twist on this classic recipe, catering to different palates.
If you want to add a bit of heat, consider incorporating some diced chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper. For a heartier version, you can mix in some cooked chicken or shrimp. The options are endless, making this recipe a fantastic base for experimentation in the kitchen.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Speedy Lentil Coconut Curry Rice is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a convenient option for lunches throughout the week. You can easily double the recipe to ensure you have plenty of servings ready to go, saving you time and effort on busy days.
When reheating, just add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the curry, as it may thicken in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal in just a few minutes, perfectly balanced and flavorful. Plus, the flavors tend to deepen and improve after sitting, making leftovers even more enjoyable.
Ingredients
For the Curry
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges
Feel free to add any vegetables you love to this dish!
Instructions
Prepare the Base
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
Cook the Lentils
Add the rinsed lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the mixture has thickened.
Serve
Serve the curry over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Enjoy your delicious and quick meal!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, serve Speedy Lentil Coconut Curry Rice with a side of naan or crusty bread. This pairing not only complements the creamy curry but also allows you to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce. Additionally, consider offering a refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy pickled vegetable dish to balance the richness of the curry.
For those who enjoy a bit of acidity, a squeeze of lime juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors, adding a zesty contrast to the creamy coconut base. Fresh cilantro as a garnish not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's aromatic profile, making each bite delightful.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is a powerhouse of nutrition. Red lentils are not only an excellent source of plant-based protein but also rich in iron and folate, making them a great choice for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. Coconut milk, while creamy and indulgent, contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may support metabolism and provide quick energy.
Moreover, the spices used in this curry, such as turmeric and curry powder, come with their own health benefits. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while curry powder is packed with antioxidants. Together, these ingredients create not just a delicious meal but one that contributes positively to your overall health.
Storage Tips
To ensure the best quality of your Speedy Lentil Coconut Curry Rice, proper storage is key. Allow the curry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to five days or in the freezer for up to three months. If freezing, portion it out into individual servings for easy access during busy days.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This method helps maintain the flavor and texture of the curry, ensuring that every bite is just as delicious as when it was freshly made. A little love goes a long way in preserving the integrity of this hearty dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?
Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Dried lentils usually take about 30 minutes to cook until tender.
→ Is this dish vegan?
Yes! This recipe is completely vegan and dairy-free.
→ What can I add to the curry for more nutrition?
You can add spinach, kale, or any other vegetables you enjoy for extra nutrients.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This curry stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
Speedy Lentil Coconut Curry Rice
A quick and flavorful dish that combines lentils, coconut milk, and spices for a hearty meal.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Clean Eating Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Curry
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges
How-To Steps
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
Add the rinsed lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the mixture has thickened.
Serve the curry over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 15g