Description
A simple, comforting, and flavorful one-pot Madras Lentils recipe made with pantry staples. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed thoroughly
- 4 cups vegetable broth, or chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent (5-7 minutes).
- 2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3. Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 4. Add rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir.
- 5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender and thick. Stir occasionally.
- 6. Stir in salt and pepper. If using, stir in coconut milk and heat through.
- 7. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- 8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and lemon wedges.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of liquid to loosen the consistency if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 300-350 kcal (varies based on coconut milk and broth)
- Sugar: Approx. 10g
- Sodium: Approx. 600mg (varies based on broth and added salt)
- Fat: Approx. 10g (varies)
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 45g
- Fiber: Approx. 15g
- Protein: Approx. 15g