Spinach Lentil and Squash Curry Recipe Perfect For Easy Vegetarian and Vegan Meals

One pot Lentil curry recipe with spinach and squash is perfect for easy Vegetarian and Vegan Meals. Make this easy lentil recipe enjoy it through out the week. This easy vegetarian curry is packed with nutrient and is delicious, perfect for lunch or dinner.

💬 Let me know in the comments if you enjoyed my vegan Lentil curry recipe

▶️ RECIPE INGREDIENTS: (3 to 4 servings approx.)

1 cup / 180g Dry red lentils - Soak lentils in water for 1 hour
500g Squash (cut into cubes) - I have used Butternut squash, you could also use pumpkin or acorn squash
100g / 3 cups Spinach leaves - chopped
2 to 3 tablespoon olive oil OR oil of choice
1+1/2 cup / 200g Onion
1 Tablespoon Ginger - finely chopped
2 tablespoon Garlic - finely chopped
3/4 cup / 175ml Tomato puree / Passata (strained tomatoes)
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/8 teaspoon Asafoetida (hing)
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (OPTIONAL)
4 cups / 900ml water OR Vegetable broth/stock
Salt to taste ( I added total 1+3/4 Teaspoon of pink Himalayan salt)

👉 Garnish:
1/2 cup / 20g fresh Cilantro / Coriander leaves
1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
Lemon Juice to taste (I added 1/2 Tablespoon but you do you)
Drizzle of Olive Oil (I added 1 tablespoon of organic cold pressed olive oil)

▶️ METHOD:

Thoroughly wash the red lentils a few times, until the water runs clear and then soak for 1 hour. Finely chop the onion, ginger and garlic. Chop the squash in to 1 inch cubes (approx.).

To a heated pan add the cooking oil, onions and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Fry on medium heat until the onions are lightly browned. Adding salt to onion will release it's moisture and help it cook faster so please don’t skip this step.

Add the ginger and garlic and fry for another 1 minute or until fragrant. Now reduce the heat to low and add the spices (turmeric, ground cumin, coriander, garam masala, asafoetida and cayenne pepper). Fry on low heat for about 1 minute or so. Add the tomato puree or passata and mix well. Cook the puree for another 2 minutes. Add the chopped squash, soaked/strained red lentils, salt to taste, water and mix well. Turn up the heat, cover the lid and bring to a vigorous boil. Once it starts to boil, give it a mix and cover the lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low (or low depending on the heat of your stove). Cook on medium-low heat for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the lentils are completely cooked.

✅ 👉 NOTE: The cooking time of the lentils depends on the quality of the lentils. One batch of red lentils maybe drier than the others and may need more cooking time. SO ADJUST THE COOKING TIME ACCORDINGLY. It took me 30 minutes on my stove.

Once the lentils are cooked uncover and give it a mix. Whisk the with the spatula to break down the lentils, this will make the dish creamy. Now increase the heat to medium and bring the lentils to a boil. Add the chopped spinach leaves and mix well. Cook the spinach for about 1 minute or so. Turn off the heat.

✅ 👉 NOTE: If the curry is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with boiling water. DO NOT add cold water to it, otherwise it will ruin the taste.

Add the chopped cilantro, ground black pepper, lemon juice, drizzle of a good quality extra virgin olive oil. Mix well. Serve hot with a steamed rice/naan, green side salad and some pickle.

▶️ IMPORTANT NOTES:

👉 How to know if the lentils are soaked well? You should be able to cut a lentil piece with your nails, effortlessly. If not, then soak longer

👉 Adding salt to onion will release it's moisture and help it cook faster so please don’t skip it

👉 Cooking time of the lentils depends on the quality of the lentils. Sometimes one batch of red lentils are drier than the others and may need more cooking time. SO ADJUST THE COOKING TIME ACCORDINGLY. It took me 30 minutes on my stove

👉 Every stove is different so regulate the heat as required

👉 If the curry is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with boiling water. DO NOT add cold water to it, otherwise it will ruin the taste

*****

Welcome to Food Impromptu! Food Artist, Plant-Based and Vegan Recipes Creator 🌱

Here you will find easy and nourishing vegan recipes for your everyday cooking. My goal is to make the transition to a Plant Based diet achievable and effortless using everyday ingredients. I draw my inspiration from classic, traditional, and modern cuisines from around the world. I take pride in creating recipes and videos for your best viewing experience.

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