Lentil and Spinach Curry (Printable)

Earthy lentils with fresh spinach and aromatic spices create a comforting, nourishing one-pot main dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Lentils & Legumes

01 - 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
02 - 3 cups vegetable broth or water

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
06 - 1 large carrot, diced
07 - 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
08 - 1 medium tomato, diced or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - 1 tablespoon olive or coconut oil
10 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
11 - 1 teaspoon ground coriander
12 - ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
13 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
15 - ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
16 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Finishing Touches

17 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
18 - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

# Directions:

01 - Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook 4 to 5 minutes until translucent.
02 - Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and diced carrot. Cook an additional 2 minutes.
03 - Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and chili flakes. Stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add rinsed lentils, diced tomato, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Assess lentils for softness; add additional broth or water if required and continue simmering until tender.
06 - Stir in chopped spinach and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until wilted and fully incorporated.
07 - Season with salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well before serving.
08 - Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-pot meal
  • Freezer-friendly
02 -
  • For extra richness stir in a splash of coconut milk before serving.
  • Serve with rice naan or crusty bread for a complete meal.
03 -
  • Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach if preferred.
  • Foraged wild greens like nettles or sorrel can be added for a true woodland twist ensure safe identification before use.
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