Mild Lentil & Coconut Curry

Lentils are rather delicious.... And if you're pursuing a low cholesterol route, then these along with loads of other beans are joyfully good for you. This curry is creamy - and although there is a lot of saturated fat in coconut, its the kind that's quite good for you (and good for building your 'good' cholesterol levels). You could leave the coconut milk out completely - this would still be really delicious.

Ingredients

  • Mug of dried Green Lentils
  • Onion
  • Chilli Pepper
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Garlic
  • Tin of Coconut Milk
  • 3 Cloves Garlic
  • 1tsp Ground Coriander
  • 1tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1tsp Ground Ginger (or fresh)
  • 1tsp Ground Garam Masala
  • Tomato Puree
  • Tamarind Paste (optional)

Gently fry a chopped Onion in a little Olive Oil

Meanwhile get your Green Lentils measured out (these don’t need overnight soaking – read the instructions though!) and gently simmer them for 20 mins or so.  You want them nearly cooked but not quite so you can add them to the sauce…  Drain them when done

Meanwhile, get your spices ready – crush 3 cloves Garlic – and finely chop a fresh Red Chilli (if you like a little heat)

When the Onions are soft, add your crushed Garlic and Chilli and cook for a few minutes… Next add your spices and cook for a couple of minutes over a low heat.  You want to cook your Garlic and Spices, but not to burn them at all

Add a squeeze of Tomato Puree – cook and stir for a few minutes before adding a mug of water.  Give the curry 10 minutes over a low heat.  Add a little Salt & Pepper and taste at this point…

Add the tin of Coconut Milk (or 2/3 of it if only 2 of you are eating) and simmer gently for 15 minutes.  By this point the sauce should have thickened slightly (add more water if too thick) and you can add your Lentils and a few chopped Cherry Tomatoes.  Check and adjust your seasoning again!  A tsp or two of Tamarind Paste at this point can make it a little more tangy

When your Lentils are cooked through – you are ready to eat; serve with plain rice, some tomatoes and coriander.  A dollop of 0% fat Yoghurt would be a great addition

 

 

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