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 Rice for a Cozy Dinner

Creamy Lentil Curry with Rice for a Cozy Dinner

Creamy Lentil Curry with Rice is the ultimate comfort food for a cozy dinner. This easy lentil curry recipe combines the earthiness of red lentils with the richness of coconut milk and aromatic spices, creating a fragrant dish that warms the soul. Paired with fluffy rice and a soft bread roll, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or anytime you crave something hearty and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Lentil Curry is not just easy to make; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Here’s why you’ll want to dive into this dish:

🎁 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.
  • Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Flavorful: A blend of spices that tantalizes your taste buds.
  • Comforting: Creamy texture that soothes and satisfies.
  • Vegan-Friendly: A hearty meal for everyone.
  • Nutritious: Loaded with protein and fiber from lentils.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 4 bread rolls (for serving)

How to Make Creamy Lentil Curry with Rice

  1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the curry powder and cook for 1 minute to release its aroma.
  4. Add the rinsed red lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the curry has thickened.
  6. While the curry simmers, prepare the rice according to package instructions.
  7. Once the lentils are cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the creamy lentil curry over a bed of fluffy rice, garnished with fresh cilantro, and enjoy with warm bread rolls on the side.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris and excess starch.
  • Adjust the thickness of the curry by adding more vegetable broth if you prefer a soupier consistency.
  • For added depth, consider sautéing some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers along with the onion.

Easy Variations

  • Substitute green or brown lentils for red lentils for a different texture and flavor.
  • Add diced tomatoes for a tangy twist.
  • Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you like heat.
  • Incorporate vegetables such as carrots or peas for extra nutrition.

What to Serve With It

  • Warm naan or pita bread for dipping.
  • A side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the curry.
  • Pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
  • Yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for a cooling effect.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if it has thickened.

Recipe Card

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

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 4 bread rolls (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the curry powder and cook for 1 minute to release its aroma.
  4. Add the rinsed red lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the curry has thickened.
  6. While the curry simmers, prepare the rice according to package instructions.
  7. Once the lentils are cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the creamy lentil curry over a bed of fluffy rice, garnished with fresh cilantro, and enjoy with warm bread rolls on the side.

Notes: Rinse the lentils well before cooking. Adjust seasoning and thickness to your 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