Red Lentil Curry Recipe

This Red Lentil Curry Recipe is creamy, cozy and full of warming spices. Red lentils simmer in a rich coconut curry sauce until perfectly tender, with just the right balance of subtle sweetness and spice.

This is one of those recipes that looks like it took hours to make, but comes together so fast. Making it perfect for a simple weeknight dinner, a loaded plant-based protein option or you need a cozy curry recipe.

For more hearty and comforting vegetarian dishes, try our Pumpkin Carrot Soup and Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups.

Ingredients

While the list may be bigger than some recipes, most grocery stores should have all you need.

See the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.

• Small Onion: I like yellow to add a hint of sweetness, can use a shallot.
• Minced Garlic: Sauté alongside the fresh ginger to help create the base for many traditional curries.
• Fresh Ginger: Brings warmth and brightness to balance the richness of the coconut milk.
• Curry Powder: Gives the signature flavor.
• Garam Masala: Adds warmth and complexity with hints of sweet spices.
• Ground Coriander & Cumin: Earthy spices that round out the flavor profile.
• Dry Red Lentils: A fast-cooking type of lentil that breaks down into a creamy base; can swap for yellow lentils.
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Creates a silky curry sauce with a subtle sweetness.

This simple recipe can be made with a large saucepan with deep sides and measuring cups and spoons.

Variations

• Sweet Potatoes: Add cubes of sweet potato for extra heartiness and natural sweetness.
• Veggies: Stir in leafy greens, like fresh spinach or kale during the last minutes of cooking to soften.
• Heartier Meal: Serve on basmati or brown rice to add even more structure. Or for a more traditional presentation serve with rice and naan.
• Add Heat: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a some spice.
• Instant Pot Version: Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes with a natural release for hands-off cooking.

How to Make Red Lentil Curry

This coconut lentil curry recipe comes together easily in one large pot. 

Add 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil) to a large pan over medium heat and cook chopped onion for about 3 minutes, then add garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant.

Place all the spices: curry powder, ground coriander, garam masala, ground cumin and sea salt and cook for 1 minute.

Add lentils, creamy coconut milk and vegetable broth to the pan mixing until fully incorporated. 

Increase heat to high and bring to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Stir about every 5 minutes, to keep from sticking, until the lentils are tender. If they are not soft yet and you are almost out of liquids, place a lid on top and reduce the heat.

Hint: Simmering on medium-low heat keeps the coconut curry sauce from splitting.

Recipe Tips

• Stir Often: Lentils thicken as they cook and may stick to the bottom of the pan.
• Taste Before Serving: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or lime juice for brightness.
• Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: The best part of this dish is its creamy textures, so try not to swap for light, unless it is necessary.
• Next-Day Flavor: Like many curry recipes, this one tastes even better the next day.

One pot meals are always a weeknight win! Try our Marry Me Chicken Soup or Tomato Basil Chicken for more family-friendly dinners you can get on the table quickly.

More One Pot Recipes

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Once cooled, store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before rewarming.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove in a medium saucepan with a splash of broth or coconut milk to loosen the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Sides: Roasted cauliflower, Sautéed Green Beans or Mashed Potatoes.
• Protein Pairings: Herb Butter Turkey, Chicken Thighs and Mississippi Pot Roast.

Lentil Curry Recipe FAQs

More Recipes

Ready to get cooking? Save time by having a grocery list automatically generate for you by clicking the "Add to Shopping List" below.