Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you today! If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms you from the inside out, you have come to the right place. Let me introduce you to my favorite Spicy Lentils with Spinach! This dish isn’t just a feast for your taste buds; it’s also super healthy, trendy, and packed with vibrant flavors.
I first discovered this recipe during a particularly chilly winter when I craved something hearty yet healthy. My friend invited me over for dinner and whipped this up in no time, and all I could think was, “Why haven’t I made this before?!” The combination of spices is just heavenly, and the spinach adds such a lovely, fresh note. It’s perfect as a work-from-home lunch or a quick dinner when you’re pressed for time. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
What’s in Spicy Lentils with Spinach?
Red Lentils: These little gems are not only delicious but also cook up really quickly! They’re loaded with protein and fiber, making them a superb choice for a filling meal. I always rinse them beforehand to ensure any impurities are washed away.
Olive Oil: A classic choice for sautéing, it brings a rich, fruity flavor to our dish. I prefer extra virgin for its quality and taste, but any olive oil will work!
Onion: The aromatic base of our dish, onions add sweetness and depth. I’ve found that the finer you chop them, the quicker they soften and melt into the dish.
Garlic and Ginger: Oh boy, if I could bottle the fragrance of these two, I would! They add a zing and aroma that literally makes your mouth water. Fresh is definitely best.
Carrot: Grated for quick cooking, it adds both color and a touch of sweetness to balance the spices.
Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Turmeric, Chili Powder, Garam Masala): These spices create the magic that is the flavor profile of this dish. You can adjust the chili powder to your taste – I suggest starting with a little and adding more if you like it fiery!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are a lifesaver! They add acidity and moisture, which is essential for our lentils to cook.
Vegetable Broth or Water: I recommend using vegetable broth for a richer flavor, but water will work in a pinch. It’s the perfect companion to the lentils.
Fresh Spinach: A nutrient powerhouse! It wilts down beautifully and adds a lovely green hue.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate everything!
Fresh Cilantro (Optional): For those who love it (or at least tolerate it!), cilantro adds a refreshing finish. It’s completely optional if you’re not a fan though.
Cooked Rice or Naan: Serve this delicious lentil dish over some fluffy rice or alongside warm naan for the ultimate experience!
Is Spicy Lentils with Spinach Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also comes packed with nutrition.
Red Lentils: They’re an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them great for digestive health and keeping you full longer.
Spinach: It’s loaded with iron, calcium, and vitamins, which is fantastic for maintaining strong bones and a robust immune system.
While there’s a lot of good here, just keep in mind that lentils can sometimes cause gas, especially if you’re not used to eating them. Starting with smaller portions might be a good idea, especially if you’re new to legumes.
Ingredients
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1 carrot, grated
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
– Cooked rice or naan for serving
This recipe makes about 4 servings, so perfect for meals throughout the week or for sharing – if you’re feeling generous!
How to Make Spicy Lentils with Spinach?
1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and grated carrot, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices; your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, then add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. Give it a good stir occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the mixture has thickened beautifully.
6. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and alongside your favorite rice or naan. Enjoy!
Flavor Boosting Tips & Serving Suggestions
If you want to mix things up, you can definitely play around with this dish! Here are a few ideas:
– Try adding some chopped bell peppers when sautéing the onions for extra sweetness and color.
– For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of coconut milk just before adding the spinach.
– Add other greens like kale or even some diced zucchini for extra veggies.
– Leftovers? This dish stores well in the fridge for reheating, and the flavors get even better over time!
I can’t wait for you to try this Spicy Lentils with Spinach! It’s such a nourishing dish that brings warmth and joy, just like a hug in a bowl. Let me know how it turns out for you or if you make any fun tweaks! Happy cooking!
