Indulge in the fragrant and comforting flavors of this Red Lentil Curry. Bursting with spices and wholesome red lentils, this dish offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re a curry aficionado or a newcomer to this cuisine, you’ll find that this recipe provides a fantastic introduction to the world of Indian-inspired cooking. Let’s embark on a culinary journey and explore how to prepare this aromatic Red Lentil Curry.
SERVES 8
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups dried red lentils
- 8 cups water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, peeled and minced
- 3 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- Pepper, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prepare Red Lentils: In your pressure cooker, combine the dried red lentils, water, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- High Pressure Cooking: Lock the lid securely in place and bring the pressure cooker to high pressure. Maintain this high pressure for 7 minutes. After the cooking time has elapsed, remove the pressure cooker from the heat source and allow it to naturally release pressure.
- Sauté Onions and Aromatics: In a separate pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the diced onions and sauté until they develop a rich caramelized color. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for an additional minute, allowing their fragrant aroma to infuse the dish.
- Infuse with Spices: Incorporate the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, sugar, and tomato paste into the pan. Stirring constantly, let this spice mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine Lentils and Curry Mixture: Drain the cooked red lentils and add them to the fragrant curry mixture. Ensure all components are thoroughly mixed, creating a harmonious blend of lentils and aromatic spices.
- Season to Perfection: Take a moment to taste the Red Lentil Curry and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add salt and pepper to your preference to achieve a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
This Red Lentil Curry recipe offers a journey of flavors, from the earthiness of red lentils to the vibrant spices that define this dish. The combination of caramelized onions, fresh ginger, and a medley of aromatic spices creates a rich and aromatic sauce that envelops the tender red lentils. The balance of heat, sweetness, and savory notes makes this curry a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Serve it alongside rice, naan, or your favorite bread for a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, this Red Lentil Curry is sure to become a household favorite.
