12 Flavorful Lentil Curry Recipes

Lentil curry recipes are a delicious and nutritious way to add more plant-based protein and fiber to your diet. Packed with flavor and spices, lentil curry recipes are not only satisfying and comforting, but they also offer numerous health benefits. Lentils are a great source of protein, iron, and folate, making them a perfect ingredient for a vegetarian or vegan meal. Additionally, curry spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion.

Whether you are looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, lentil curry recipes are versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. From creamy coconut lentil curry to spicy masoor dal, there are endless variations to explore. These recipes are perfect for meal prepping, as they often taste even better the next day, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful and nourishing meal throughout the week.

Coconut Lentil Curry Stir-Fry

Experience the creamy and aromatic delight of Coconut Lentil Curry Stir-Fry. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a flavorful meal that comes together in no time. Here’s what you’ll need to make it for two servings:

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Method:

• Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add sliced onion and sauté until translucent.
• Stir in red curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
• Add bell pepper and broccoli, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes.
• Incorporate cooked lentils and coconut milk, stirring until heated through.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Instant Pot Thai Red Lentil Soup

This flavorful Thai-inspired lentil soup features vibrant ingredients like red lentils and coconut milk, with a zesty kick from Thai curry paste. The combination of fresh ginger, lemongrass, and lime juice gives this dish a refreshing burst of flavors, while being packed with healthy proteins and fiber.

Red lentils are not only delicious but also rich in essential nutrients like iron and folate, making this soup both nutritious and satisfying. Get the full recipe at Instant Pot Eats.

Creamy Coconut Curry Lentils

This delightful recipe highlights the creaminess of coconut milk paired with the hearty texture of lentils. The addition of curry powder and turmeric not only brings a rich flavor but also offers anti-inflammatory benefits. This dish is perfect for those seeking a comforting meal that is both vegan and gluten-free.

Coconut milk adds a luxurious texture while providing healthy fats, making it an ideal choice for a nourishing curry. Get the full recipe at Instant Pot Eats.

Turkish Split Pea and Lentil Soup

This Turkish-inspired soup combines split peas and lentils with a blend of Middle Eastern spices that lend a warm and aromatic flavor. Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty soup is rich in fiber and plant-based protein, making it a healthy and filling option.

The spices used, like cumin and coriander, are known for their digestive benefits, enhancing the richness of the legumes. Get the full recipe at Instant Pot Eats.

Creamy Tomato Lentil Curry with Fresh Coriander

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup red lentils
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Cooking Method:
  • Rinse lentils under cold water and drain.
  • In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil and add lentils. Simmer until tender, about 15 minutes.
  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until softened.
  • Add cumin, coriander powder, and turmeric, stirring for about 1 minute.
  • Pour in the tomato puree and bring to a simmer.
  • Stir in the cooked lentils and coconut milk, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Classic Instant Pot Lentil Soup

A timeless recipe, this classic lentil soup offers a simple yet flavorful blend of vegetables and lentils. It’s vegan and gluten-free, with the lentils providing a substantial source of protein and dietary fiber, keeping you energized throughout the day.

The use of bay leaves and thyme adds depth to the soup, making it a comforting and aromatic experience. Get the full recipe at Instant Pot Eats.

Madras Lentils with a Kick

This spicy dish features lentils simmered in a rich, tomato-based sauce, spiced with garam masala and chili powder for an extra kick. It’s a perfect example of a balanced and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed on its own or served with rice.

Lentils are excellent for maintaining heart health, and the spices provide added antioxidants, making this meal not only delicious but also beneficial for your wellbeing. Get the full recipe at Instant Pot Eats.

Spicy Coconut Lentil Curry with Roasted Veggies

Experience a burst of flavors with this Spicy Coconut Lentil Curry paired with perfectly roasted veggies. This dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

• 1/2 cup lentils
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small sweet potato, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Method:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss the sweet potato and red bell pepper in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25 minutes.
• In a pot, combine lentils, coconut milk, curry powder, and cayenne pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until lentils are tender.
• Serve the curry topped with the roasted veggies.

Low-Calorie Vegetable Lentil Soup

For those mindful of calorie intake, this low-calorie lentil soup combines the goodness of vegetables and lentils without sacrificing flavor. Ingredients like carrots, spinach, and celery provide a variety of vitamins and minerals.

This soup is a great choice for a light meal, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes while supporting your dietary goals. Get the full recipe at Instant Pot Eats.

Cheesy Southwestern Lentils and Rice

This hearty dish pairs lentils with brown rice, corn, and a melty cheese topping for a southwestern twist on traditional curry flavors. It’s a satisfying, protein-rich meal perfect for any weeknight dinner.

The combination of legumes and grains offers a complete protein source, essential for muscle repair and energy. Get the full recipe at Platings & Pairings.

Cabbage and Lentil Soup

This comforting soup combines the earthiness of lentils with the subtle sweetness of cabbage, creating a nutritious blend that is low in calories yet rich in flavors. Carrots and tomatoes add to the overall nutrition, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal.

The fiber-rich ingredients promote digestive health while keeping you full longer. Get the full recipe at Chef de Home.

Budget-Friendly Spiced Lentils and Rice

On a budget? This affordable recipe combines lentils and rice with a robust mix of spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric, offering a flavorful dish without breaking the bank. It’s a perfect weekly meal prep option that delivers both taste and nutrition.

The use of spices not only enhances the flavor profile but also provides health benefits such as improved metabolism and reduced inflammation. Get the full recipe at Healthy Slow Cooking.

Chicken and Beluga Lentil Stew

This rich and hearty stew features beluga lentils, which hold their shape beautifully, combined with tender chicken pieces. The stew is infused with aromatic herbs and spices, making it a comforting meal perfect for colder weather.

Packed with iron and protein, this dish is not only satiating but also supports muscle growth and repair. Get the full recipe from The Yum Yum Factor.

Pressure Cooker Chicken Lentil Bacon Stew

This savory stew combines the richness of bacon with the earthiness of lentils and chicken, creating a robust and deeply flavored meal. Cooked in a pressure cooker, it’s a quick way to enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The addition of bacon not only adds a smoky flavor but also a dose of healthy fats, making the dish fulfilling and energizing. Get the full recipe at Serious Eats.

Golden Coconut Lentil Soup

This vibrant soup gets its golden hue from turmeric, offering a delightful mix of lentils and coconut milk with a hint of spice. It’s a comforting and anti-inflammatory dish that’s perfect for boosting your immune system.

Turmeric and coconut milk are not only flavorful but are also rich in antioxidants and good fats that support overall health. Get the full recipe at Budget Bytes.

Spicy Lentil Curry Tacos

Experience a fusion of flavors with Spicy Lentil Curry Tacos, where hearty lentils meet bold spices in a delicious taco format. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this dish brings together the richness of lentil curry with the convenience of a taco.

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 small taco shells
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Cooking Method:

• Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
• Add curry powder and chili flakes, cooking until fragrant.
• Stir in cooked lentils and season with salt. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
• Warm taco shells, then fill with lentil curry. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your Spicy Lentil Curry Tacos!

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Velvety Lentil Curry with Coconut and Lime

This Velvety Lentil Curry with Coconut and Lime is a deliciously creamy and zesty dish that brings a refreshing twist to classic lentil curries. Perfect for a cozy dinner for two, this recipe combines rich coconut milk with the tang of lime, resulting in a delightful balance of flavors.

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup of red lentils
  • 1 cup of coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon of curry powder
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooking Method:
  • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
  • Add curry powder, stirring for about 1 minute to release flavors.
  • Stir in the red lentils, followed by the coconut milk and 1 cup of water.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
  • Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

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Spiced Lentil Curry Stuffed Bell Peppers

Delight in the fusion of aromatic spices and hearty lentils with these Spiced Lentil Curry Stuffed Bell Peppers. This dish brings together the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine encased in sweet bell peppers, making for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed peppers are both flavorful and filling.

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 2 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Cooking Method:
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
  • In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
  • Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, cayenne, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute.
  • Stir in cooked lentils and diced tomatoes, cook until heated through.
  • Stuff the bell peppers with the lentil mixture and place in a baking dish.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, until peppers are tender.
  • Garnish with cilantro before serving.

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Spicy Coconut Lentil Curry with Sweet Potatoes

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 1 medium sweet potato, diced
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Super Short Cooking Method:
  • Heat oil in a pot, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
  • Add red curry paste and cook for a minute.
  • Stir in diced sweet potato and lentils.
  • Pour in coconut milk and simmer until lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

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Lentil Curry Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
• 2 large bell peppers
• 1/2 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

• Cooking Method:
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
• In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
• Add lentils, diced tomatoes, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 15-20 minutes until lentils are tender.
• Stuff the mixture into bell peppers and place them in a baking dish.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

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Lentil Curry Shepherd’s Pie

This innovative twist on the classic shepherd’s pie incorporates the earthy flavors of lentil curry, offering a comforting dish that’s both hearty and packed with a punch of spices, perfect for a cozy dinner.

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking Method:
  • Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
  • Sauté onion and carrot in a pan until soft.
  • Add cooked lentils and curry powder, stirring to combine.
  • Pour in vegetable broth and simmer until the mixture thickens.
  • Transfer lentil mixture to a baking dish and spread mashed potatoes on top.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.

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Savory Baked Lentil Curry Stuffed Peppers

• Ingredients for 2 servings:
  • 2 large bell peppers
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Cooking Method:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
  • In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
  • Add cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
  • Stuff the bell peppers with the lentil curry mixture.
  • Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving, if desired.

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