02 Sep 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
2 cups brown rice
2 cups water
2 cups lentils
1 tbsp olive oil
8 cups spinach
2 cups coconut milk
1 tbsp curry paste
1 tbsp curry powder
1 tbsp canned tomato paste
3/4 tsp salt
1 dash black pepper
Quick Coconut Curry Lentils with Spinach is a hearty and delicious dish that's perfect for any meal. Packed with protein-rich lentils, nutrient-dense spinach, and creamy coconut milk, this dish is not only flavorful but also highly nutritious. It's a quick and easy recipe that comes together in no time and is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
- Rinse 2 cups of brown rice under cold water.
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let the rice cook for about 40-45 minutes or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
2. Cook the Lentils:
- While the rice is cooking, place 2 cups of lentils in a separate pot.
- Add enough water to cover the lentils by about 2 inches.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water.
3. Prepare the Curry Sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of curry paste, 1 tablespoon of curry powder, and 1 tablespoon of canned tomato paste to the oil. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become aromatic.
- Gradually stir in 2 cups of coconut milk, making sure everything is well combined.
- Add 3/4 teaspoon of salt and a dash of black pepper. Stir to dissolve the salt.
4. Combine Lentils and Spinach:
- Add the cooked lentils to the skillet with the curry sauce.
- Stir in 8 cups of fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt into the sauce. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve:
- Once the spinach is wilted and everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat.
- Fluff the cooked rice using a fork and divide it among serving bowls.
- Spoon the coconut curry lentils and greens over the rice.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve hot and enjoy your nutritious and delicious Quick Coconut Curry Lentils with Spinach!
Tips:
- 1. For added flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the lentils.
- 2. If you prefer a spicier curry, feel free to add more curry paste or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- 3. You can substitute the spinach with other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard if desired.
- 4. Make sure to rinse the lentils well to remove any debris and reduce cooking time.
- 5. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making this an excellent meal prep option.
Quick Coconut Curry Lentils with Spinach is a delicious and fulfilling meal that's incredibly easy to prepare. With layers of flavor from the curry paste, powder, and coconut milk, and a nutrient boost from spinach and lentils, this dish makes for a perfect weeknight dinner. Enjoy the rich, exotic flavors and the wholesome goodness in every bite!