Name: Indian Green Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 cup green lentils; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, grated; 1 tomato, chopped; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander powder; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons coconut milk (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish

why make this recipe

Indian Green Lentil Stew is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make. Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making this stew a healthy choice. It’s a comforting meal perfect for any time of the year. Plus, it’s vegetarian and can be made vegan by leaving out the coconut milk. This stew is perfect for those looking to try something new or enjoy the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine.

how to make Indian Green Lentil Stew

Ingredients:

1 cup green lentils
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
1 tomato, chopped
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander powder
2 cups vegetable broth or water
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons coconut milk (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions:

Rinse the green lentils under cold water and set aside.
In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger over medium heat until translucent.
Add the chopped tomato, turmeric, cumin, and coriander powder, cooking for a few minutes until aromatic.
Stir in the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
If desired, stir in coconut milk for creaminess and season with salt.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

how to serve Indian Green Lentil Stew

Serve the Indian Green Lentil Stew hot. It pairs well with rice, naan, or even a simple salad. You can add a squeeze of lime or a spoonful of yogurt on top for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro to enhance the dish visually and tastefully.

how to store Indian Green Lentil Stew

Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to let it cool completely before putting it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

tips to make Indian Green Lentil Stew

Rinse the lentils well to remove any dirt or impurities.
Adjust the spices to your liking; if you prefer it spicier, you can add chili powder or fresh chilies.
For added nutrition, you can throw in some chopped vegetables like spinach or carrots.
Letting the stew sit for a while enhances the flavors, so if you have time, let it rest before serving.

variation

You can make a variation of this stew by adding different vegetables like kale, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for a tangy flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of lentils for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of lentils, but cooking times may vary. Red lentils will cook faster and will become softer.

2. Is this stew vegan?
Yes, the stew is vegan; just leave out the coconut milk if you prefer it without.

3. Can I make this stew in advance?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend together.

4. How do I make it spicier?
You can add spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh chopped green chilies to increase the heat level.

5. What can I serve with this stew?
This stew goes well with rice, quinoa, or flatbreads like naan or roti. You can also enjoy it with a simple side salad.