Red Curry Lentils Recipe

Introduction

Red curry lentils are a culinary gem, offering a blend of vibrant flavors and wholesome nutrition. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, incorporating red curry lentils into your meals can add depth and complexity to your dishes. In this article, we’ll explore the versatility of red curry lentils and provide you with seven mouthwatering recipes to try at home.

What are Red Curry Lentils?

Red curry lentils are a type of lentil that has been hulled and split, making them cook more quickly than whole lentils. They are commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine, where they are prized for their nutty flavor and ability to absorb other flavors in dishes. Red curry lentils are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans.

Health Benefits of Red Curry Lentils

Before diving into the recipes, let’s take a moment to appreciate the health benefits of red curry lentils. These tiny legumes pack a nutritional punch, offering a range of health benefits:

1. High in Protein: Red curry lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a valuable addition to vegetarian and vegan diets.
2. Rich in Fiber: With their high fiber content, red curry lentils promote digestive health and help regulate blood sugar levels.
3. Packed with Nutrients: Red curry lentils are loaded with essential nutrients, including iron, folate, and manganese, which are important for overall health and well-being.

Recipes

Now, let’s explore seven delicious red curry lentils recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds:

1. Red Curry Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red curry lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp red curry paste
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the red curry paste, turmeric, and cumin, and cook for another minute.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the pot.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

2. Red Curry Lentil Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red curry lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp red curry paste
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion until translucent.
2. Add the carrots and potatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the red curry paste, ginger, and coriander, and cook for another minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

3. Red Curry Lentil Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red curry lentils, cooked and cooled
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light meal.

4. Red Curry Lentil Wraps

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red curry lentils, cooked
• 4 large whole wheat tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Spread a spoonful of Greek yogurt onto each tortilla.
2. Layer the cooked lentils, shredded lettuce, diced tomato, avocado slices, and cilantro onto the tortillas.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roll up the tortillas tightly, slice in half, and serve.

5. Red Curry Lentil Curry

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red curry lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp red curry paste
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the red curry paste, turmeric, cumin, and coriander, and cook for another minute.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, coconut milk, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

6. Red Curry Lentil Dip

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red curry lentils, cooked and cooled
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup tahini
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the cooked lentils, Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped parsley.
5. Serve with pita chips or vegetable crudites