The Simple Slim Kitchen 30-day meal planning system
30 DAYS OF MEALS
🍴 MAKE DINNER EASIER
Tired of Figuring Out What to Cook Every Night?
Get 62 simple recipes, a complete 30-day meal plan, weekly shopping lists and easy meal-prep guidance.
Complete Digital System — Just $17
SEE THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN →
Instant digital access • One-time purchase
Japanese-style chef knife
UP TO 70% OFF
SMART KITCHEN UPGRADE
A Seriously Sharp Chef Knife Without the Premium Price.
Ice-hardened steel, a comfortable control grip, and a sharp edge made for slicing meat, vegetables, herbs and more.
SPECIAL ONLINE DEAL
FROM $24.99 EACH
with select bundle
SEE TODAY'S KNIFE DEAL →
60-day guarantee • Online offer

Creamy Lentil Curry with Basmati Rice Recipe

Creamy Lentil Curry with Basmati Rice Recipe

Looking for a cozy, flavorful dish that’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight? This Creamy Lentil Curry with Basmati Rice is a vibrant and satisfying meal that showcases the warmth of spices and the creaminess of coconut milk. Packed with protein-rich red lentils and aromatic herbs, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. Serve it over fluffy basmati rice for a comforting bowl that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy lentil curry is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Here’s what makes it a must-try:

🎁 TEMU $0 KITCHEN GIFTS

6 Kitchen Finds You May Be Able to Get for $0

Temu is currently showing these kitchen products as $0 gifts for eligible app users with qualifying orders. Tap any item below to check the current offer.

🎁 $0 gift availability may vary. Offers shown are for eligible Temu app users with qualifying orders. Tap a product to see current eligibility, pricing and terms.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you use links on this page.
  • Easy to Make: Quick prep and cooking time make this dish perfect for busy evenings.
  • Nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein and essential nutrients from lentils and spices.
  • Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
  • Comforting: Creamy, warm, and hearty—ideal for any comfort food craving.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups water for rice

How to Make Creamy Lentil Curry with Rice

  1. In a medium pot, combine the basmati rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
  2. While the rice is cooking, heat the coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the curry powder and ground cumin, stirring to coat the onions, garlic, and ginger evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance the spices.
  5. Pour in the rinsed red lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the curry is creamy.
  6. Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
  7. Serve the creamy lentil curry over the fluffy basmati rice, garnishing with extra cilantro if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any impurities.
  • For a thicker curry, let it simmer a bit longer, or mash some of the lentils with a fork.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less curry powder according to your taste.
  • Use fresh herbs to brighten up the flavors in the dish.

Easy Variations

  • Add diced vegetables like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • For a protein boost, stir in cooked chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
  • Experiment with different spices like turmeric or garam masala for unique flavor profiles.

What to Serve With It

  • Warm naan or pita bread for dipping.
  • A side of cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
  • Pickled onions to add a tangy crunch.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the curry if necessary.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Creamy Lentil Curry with Basmati Rice
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups water for rice

Instructions:

  1. In a medium pot, combine the basmati rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  2. Heat coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in curry powder and ground cumin, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Pour in rinsed lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
  6. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
  7. Serve over basmati rice, garnishing with extra cilantro.

Notes: Rinse lentils before cooking. Adjust spice levels to preference.

Related Posts

Your Next 30 Days of Meals — Already Planned
The Simple Slim Kitchen
Stop wondering what to cook every night. Get a complete 30-day meal system that makes meals, shopping & prep easier.
✓ 62 Recipes ✓ 30-Day Plan ✓ Shopping Lists ✓ Meal Prep
Get the complete digital system
$37 $17 TODAY
Instant Access  •  One-Time Purchase  •  60-Day Guarantee
GET THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN — $17
No thanks, continue to CraveFinch.com
Scroll to Top