Vegan Crockpot Lentil Curry Feast

Vegan Crockpot Lentil Curry Feast

Warm, hearty, and full of flavor, the Vegan Crockpot Lentil Curry is an ideal dish for those who love vibrant, plant-based meals with minimal effort. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this delightful feast will transform your slow cooker into a vessel of aromatic goodness.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk
• 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons of curry powder
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup of spinach (fresh or frozen)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Cooking Method

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by rinsing the lentils thoroughly under cold water. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and carrots, and mince the garlic and ginger.

2. Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Place the rinsed lentils, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper into the crockpot. Add the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

3. Cook the Curry: Set the crockpot on low heat and cook for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.

4. 

   Add Vegetables: Around 1 hour before the cooking time is up, add the diced bell pepper and carrots to the mixture. Stir well.

5. Finish with Spinach and Lemon Juice: When the cooking time is complete, stir in the spinach and lemon juice. Allow the spinach to wilt into the curry.

6. Garnish and Serve: Serve the curry hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside your choice of sides.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

The Vegan Crockpot Lentil Curry is not only a sumptuous meal but also a nutritional powerhouse. Lentils are rich in protein and fiber, making this dish filling and beneficial for digestive health. Coconut milk adds creamy texture while providing healthy fats. With the additional vegetables, this curry is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K.

Best Side Dishes or Salads

• Fluffy Basmati Rice or Quinoa: The nutty flavor of quinoa or the fragrant aroma of basmati rice perfectly complements the curry.
• Naan Bread or Flatbread: These are ideal for scooping up the rich sauce, ensuring no drop is left behind.
• Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing salad with a sprinkle of lime juice and mint enhances the meal's overall vibrancy.

Perfect Drink Pairings

• Chilled Mango Lassi: A sweet, fruity lassi can cleanse the palate and provide a cooling balance to the curry's spices.
• Herbal Tea: Mint or ginger tea can offer a soothing conclusion to the meal.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: The effervescence and citrus notes are refreshing against the richness of the curry.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Vegan Crockpot Lentil Curry for your next feast, indulging in its plentiful flavors and nourishing benefits.