Curried Lentils And Rice
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish combining spiced lentils with rice and fresh spinach, perfect for comforting family dinners or wholesome weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute brown rice, chopped onion, and minced garlic in oil until sizzling.
- Add curry powder and water, then stir in lentils.
- Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Stir in chopped raw spinach before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking. If you don't have brown rice, white rice can be used, but adjust the cooking time as it cooks faster. Feel free to customize the spices; adding garam masala will enhance the flavor profile. If you prefer a protein boost, you can mix in some chickpeas, reflecting the essence of Indian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Curried lentils and rice pairs beautifully with Indian Bean Bread and a side of yogurt for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it with a simple cucumber salad for added crunch. For extra flavor, garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice. This dish makes for a wholesome meal on its own or can be complemented with other Indian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent drying out, and warm in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to a month; just ensure it's cooled completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curried Lentils And Rice contains roughly 403 calories, with 5g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1593mg per serving (69% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of lentils for this recipe?
Yes, you can use red or green lentils instead of brown lentils. Just note that cooking times may vary; red lentils cook faster and may become mushy, while green lentils will retain their shape better.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Curried lentils and rice is an excellent meal prep option. You can prepare a larger batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just make sure to store it properly to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for spinach if I don't have any?
If spinach is unavailable, you can use kale or Swiss chard instead. Both greens work well in this dish and provide a similar texture and flavor. Just chop them into smaller pieces and add them in the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).