If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then this Spicy Red Lentil Curry is just the thing! This hearty curry has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during those chilly winter evenings when all I want is something cozy and satisfying. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with vibrant flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings — everyone loves it!

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up in less than an hour, making it a fantastic option for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a little prep time, you can have a warm meal ready in under 45 minutes!
Flavorful and Satisfying: Packed with spices and creamy coconut milk, this curry is bursting with flavor.
Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with red lentils, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
Make Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge for several days.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spices or add your favorite veggies!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making them easy to find at your local grocery store. Gather these staples to create a comforting bowl of Spicy Red Lentil Curry that everyone will enjoy.

1 cup (~190g) red lentils
4 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 inch piece of fresh ginger, finely minced
2 serrano peppers, finely minced*
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp cayenne pepper*
½ tsp ground coriander
2 tsp curry powder
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp kosher salt, use more as needed
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
1 (13.5-ounce/400 ml) can full-fat coconut milk
1 (14-ounce/400g) can crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

Variations

This Spicy Red Lentil Curry recipe is incredibly flexible! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of serrano peppers or omit them entirely.
Make It Chunky: Add diced potatoes or carrots for heartier texture.
Swap the Grain: Serve with quinoa instead of rice for a different twist.

How to Make Spicy Red Lentil Curry

Step 1: Rinse and Soak the Lentils

Start by rinsing those lovely red lentils in cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any impurities. Soaking them overnight or at least for six hours will ensure they cook faster and absorb more nutrients.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your avocado oil or olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in minced garlic, ginger, and serrano peppers. Sauté everything for about three minutes until fragrant, taking care not to let the garlic burn.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Now it’s time to add the magic! Stir in ground cumin, cayenne pepper, coriander, curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook these spices together for about half a minute until they release their wonderful aroma — this step brings out their full flavor!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add in your soaked lentils along with crushed tomatoes and coconut milk. Stir it all together nicely. Then reduce the heat to low and partially cover the pan with a lid. Let it simmer gently for about 20 to 25 minutes until the lentils are soft and creamy.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Once cooked through, turn off the heat and mix in lemon juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust salt if needed—this adds brightness to our spicy red lentil curry!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your delicious curry hot alongside rice or flatbread. Don’t forget to garnish with extra cilantro if you like! Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to four days—if there are any leftovers at all!

There you have it! A delightful bowl of Spicy Red Lentil Curry that’s sure to become one of your favorites too. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Red Lentil Curry

Making the perfect Spicy Red Lentil Curry is all about technique and a little love. Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

Soaking the lentils: Soaking the lentils not only helps them cook faster but also enhances nutrient absorption. This small step can make a big difference in texture and flavor.
Adjusting spice levels: If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the number of serrano peppers or cayenne pepper. Conversely, for those who crave heat, feel free to add more! It’s all about tailoring the dish to your taste.
Using fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your curry. If possible, try grinding whole spices before adding them to release their full aromatic potential.
Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the curry to simmer on low heat not only thickens it but also helps meld the flavors together beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.
Taste as you go: Always taste your curry before serving. This allows you to adjust seasoning and ensure it’s just right for your palate!

How to Serve Spicy Red Lentil Curry

Serving your Spicy Red Lentil Curry can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas for presentation that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

Chopped green onions: Adding sliced green onions brings a fresh crunch that complements the rich flavors of the curry.
A dollop of yogurt alternative: A spoonful of dairy-free yogurt adds creaminess and balances the spice, making each bite a delight.
Toasted coconut flakes: Sprinkling toasted coconut on top adds a hint of sweetness and a beautiful texture contrast.

Side Dishes

Basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a classic pairing that soaks up all that delicious curry sauce, making it an essential side.
Naan or flatbread: Soft naan or any flatbread provides a wonderful vehicle for scooping up your curry, enhancing the meal experience.
Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a splash of lemon juice and herbs offers a cool contrast to the warm spices in the curry.
Sautéed greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or kale can add nutrition and color to your plate, making it even more vibrant and wholesome.

Enjoy this hearty meal with loved ones, savoring every bite of warmth and flavor that this Spicy Red Lentil Curry brings!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spicy Red Lentil Curry is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the curry to cool completely before storing.
Transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Let the curry cool completely before freezing.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
You may need to add a splash of water or coconut milk if it has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Spicy Red Lentil Curry without coconut milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute coconut milk with vegetable broth or any non-dairy milk of your choice, but keep in mind that it will alter the creaminess and flavor slightly.

How spicy is Spicy Red Lentil Curry?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your taste. The serrano peppers add heat, but you can reduce the amount or remove them entirely for a milder version.

What can I serve with Spicy Red Lentil Curry?

This curry pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or flatbreads like naan or roti. A side salad also works nicely to balance out the meal.

How long does Spicy Red Lentil Curry last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Spicy Red Lentil Curry as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a cold day. Packed with flavors and nutrients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Spicy Red Lentil Curry

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 4
Category: Main
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Indian

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Description

Spicy Red Lentil Curry is the ultimate comfort food that envelops you in warmth and flavor. This hearty dish combines creamy coconut milk with a blend of aromatic spices, making it perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. With its vibrant colors and satisfying texture, this curry will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Not only is it easy to prepare in under an hour, but it’s also versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spice levels. Packed with nutritious red lentils, this dish is not just delicious but also health-conscious. Gather your ingredients and enjoy a cozy meal that brings the family together!

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup red lentils
4 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
2 serrano peppers, minced
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp ground coriander
2 tsp curry powder
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp kosher salt, use more as needed
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

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Instructions

Rinse red lentils under cold water until clear.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; sauté garlic, ginger, and serrano peppers for 3 minutes.
Stir in spices and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add rinsed lentils, crushed tomatoes, and coconut milk; stir well.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are soft.
Stir in lemon juice and chopped cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 380
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 560mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Fiber: 12g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Spicy Red Lentil Curry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Variations