Brown Lentil Curry
Brown Lentil Curry
5 from 1 vote
This flavorful curry brings together earthy brown lentils with aromatic spices for a satisfying meal. Savory notes intermingle with a hint of heat, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Perfect for a cozy night in or a hearty lunch, this curry is sure to please your taste buds.
Brown Lentil Curry

Brown Lentil Curry, a fragrant, hearty dish that has stood the test of time, originating from the rich culinary traditions of India. This comforting curry has been enjoyed for generations, with its warm spices and robust flavors delighting the taste buds of millions around the world.

The history of this recipe can be traced back centuries, with Indian families passing down their own versions of this beloved dish from one generation to the next. Each cook puts their own unique spin on the recipe, adding their favorite spices and personal touches to create a curry that is truly their own.

Despite its complex flavors and aromatic spices, Brown Lentil Curry is surprisingly easy to make, making it a popular choice for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. With a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen skills, you can recreate this flavorful dish in the comfort of your own home.

The warmth and richness of the lentils, combined with the boldness of the curry spices, create a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish to impress your guests, Brown Lentil Curry is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So why not try your hand at this classic dish and experience the flavors of India right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Brown Lentils: Brown lentils are nutritious legumes that are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. They have a mild, earthy flavor and a firm texture that holds up well in soups and stews.

Oil: Oil is used for cooking and adding richness to dishes. It helps to cook the ingredients evenly and adds flavor to the dish.

Jeera: Jeera, or cumin seeds, are a common spice used in Indian cooking. They have a warm, earthy flavor and are often used in curries and other savory dishes.

Garlic Cloves: Garlic adds a pungent, savory flavor to dishes. It is often used to enhance the taste of soups, stews, and curries.

Onion: Onions are a versatile vegetable that add flavor and a slight sweetness to dishes. They are often used as a base for curries and sauces.

Tomatoes: Tomatoes add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to dishes. They are often used in curries and sauces to add richness and depth of flavor.

Green Chillies: Green chillies add heat and a fresh, spicy flavor to dishes. They are often used in Indian cooking to add a kick of heat to curries and sauces.

Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients in the dish. It helps to balance out the flavors and make the dish more tasty.

Chilli Powder: Chilli powder adds heat and flavor to the dish. It is often used in Indian cooking to add a spicy kick to curries and stews.

Haldi: Haldi, or turmeric, is a spice that adds a warm, earthy flavor and a bright yellow color to dishes. It is often used in curries and stews for both flavor and color.

Coriander: Coriander, or cilantro, is a fresh herb that adds a bright, citrusy flavor to dishes. It is often used as a garnish in Indian dishes to add a pop of freshness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To serve your delicious Brown Lentil Curry, you can start by spooning it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. This will soak up all the flavorful sauce and make for a hearty and satisfying meal. You can also serve it with some warm naan bread or roti on the side for a complete Indian meal experience.

If you’re looking to add some freshness to your dish, consider topping it with a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves. This will add a nice contrast to the rich and spicy flavors of the curry. For some added crunch, you can also serve it with a side of crispy papadums or pickled vegetables.

For a different twist on this classic recipe, you can try adding some diced potatoes or carrots to the curry while it simmers. This will not only bulk up the dish but also add a new layer of flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of lentils, such as red lentils or yellow lentils, to see how they change the overall taste and consistency of the dish.

Another variation you can try is to blend a portion of the cooked lentils with some coconut milk to create a creamy and indulgent curry sauce. This will add a hint of sweetness and a rich, velvety texture to the dish. You can adjust the amount of coconut milk to your liking to achieve the desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute brown lentils with another type of lentils?

Yes, you can use green or red lentils in place of brown lentils in this curry recipe. Just note that different types of lentils may have slightly different cooking times.

Is this curry recipe spicy?

The level of spiciness in this brown lentil curry can be adjusted based on your preference. You can increase or decrease the amount of chili powder or add more green chilies for extra heat.

Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils?

Yes, you can use canned lentils in this recipe for convenience. Just make sure to rinse and drain the canned lentils before adding them to the curry.

How long does it take to cook brown lentil curry?

Brown lentil curry typically takes around 30-40 minutes to cook, including preparation time. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of lentils used and how soft you want them to be.

Can I freeze leftovers of this curry?

Yes, you can freeze any leftover brown lentil curry in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

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Brown Lentil Curry

Brown Lentil Curry

by Nabeela Kauser
Brown lentil curry is a nutritious, flavorful dish perfect for vegetarian and vegan diets. Rich in protein and fiber, it combines hearty lentils with aromatic spices, creating a satisfying meal. This easy-to-make curry can be enjoyed with rice, or naan.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Indian, Pakistani
Servings 4
Calories 406 kcal

Ingredients

  • 300 g Lentils brown
  • 50 ml Oil
  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds jeera
  • 3 cloves Garlic
  • 1 Onion
  • 2 Tomatoes
  • 2 Green Chillies
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Chilli Powder
  • 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
  • 1 handful Coriander
  • 1 litre Water

Instructions

  • In a large pan or pot, pour in the oil and heat it over medium heat until it shimmers.
  • Add the jeera (cumin seeds) and minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  • Add finely chopped onions to the pan. Stir well to coat them in the oil and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the onions turn translucent and start to brown slightly around the edges.
  • Stir in chopped tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to break down into a sauce.
  • Add in your spices and add green chillies. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, to ensure the spices are well combined and the raw smell of the spices cooks off.
  • Add a splash of water to prevent the spices from burning.
  • Add the rinsed and drained brown lentils to the pan. Stir them into the mixture and cook for 3-4 minutes on medium heat, allowing the lentils to absorb the flavors.
  • Pour in the water. Stir to combine, then cover the pan with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and fully cooked. Check occasionally and stir to prevent sticking, adding more water if necessary.
  • Once the lentils are cooked and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the lid and turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Video

Notes

Nutritional facts:
The provision of nutritional information is done so merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 406kcalCarbohydrates: 53gProtein: 21gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.05gSodium: 688mgPotassium: 948mgFibre: 25gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 764IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 74mgIron: 7mg
Keyword Cooking, Curry, Dal, Food, Lentil Curry, Lentils, Recipe
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Cook with Nabeela

Hi, I'm Nabeela!

I love to cook! I want to share with you my favourite, delicious family-friendly recipes. I want to inspire you to create fantastic food for your family every day.

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