Vegan Lentil Curry Rice Bowl

Vegan Lentil Curry Rice Bowl

Are you looking for a comforting yet nutritious meal that's easy to prepare and completely plant-based? Look no further than this Vegan Lentil Curry Rice Bowl. It's a perfect blend of aromatic spices, protein-rich lentils, and fluffy rice, making every bite a delight. Plus, it's ideal for meal prep, ensuring you have a wholesome lunch or dinner ready to go!

Ingredients

• For the curry:

  • 1 cup of dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons of curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

• For the rice:

  • 1 cup of Basmati rice
  • 2 cups of water
  • Pinch of salt

Cooking method

1. Prepare the rice:

   • Rinse the Basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear.
   • In a saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit with the lid on.

2. 

   Cook the lentil curry:

   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
   • Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Add the curry powder, ground cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot, stirring to coat the onions.
   • Pour in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Stir everything together.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add more spices if desired.

3. Assemble the bowl:

   • Fluff the cooked Basmati rice with a fork. Serve a generous scoop of rice in a bowl, topped with the lentil curry.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

This Vegan Lentil Curry Rice Bowl is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which help in digestive health and maintaining stable energy levels. The addition of spices such as turmeric and cumin brings anti-inflammatory properties, while the coconut milk adds healthy fats crucial for nutrient absorption.

To enhance your meal, consider pairing it with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with lemon juice, which complements the richness of the curry. As for beverages, a cool glass of iced herbal tea or sparkling water with a splash of lime would perfectly balance the warm spices of the dish.

Whether you're a seasoned vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this Vegan Lentil Curry Rice Bowl is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the comforting flavors and healthful benefits of this easy-to-make recipe!