How to Make the Perfect Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry
Indian · Easy · 40 min · 4 servings
This hearty lentil and sweet potato curry is packed with warming spices and wholesome plant based ingredients that come together in one pot. It is a satisfying and nourishing meal that delivers incredible depth of flavor without any animal products.
Why this recipe works
This Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 40 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 380 calories with 18g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 cup red lentils rinsed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 can full fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 3 cups low sodium vegetable broth
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Saute Aromatics
Heat a large pot over medium heat with a splash of water or vegetable broth. Add the curry powder and stir for one minute until fragrant to bloom the spices and develop a deep flavor base.
Step 2: Build the Base
Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium high heat.
Step 3: Simmer Lentils and Sweet Potato
Add the rinsed red lentils and cubed sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir everything together and reduce heat to medium low. Cover and cook for 25 minutes until the lentils are completely soft and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Finish with Coconut Milk
Pour in the coconut milk and stir gently to combine. Simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes to allow the curry to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving over rice or with flatbread.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- red lentils → green or brown lentils though cook time will increase by 10 minutes
- coconut milk → cashew cream blended from half cup soaked cashews and one cup water
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the spice blooming step which results in flat and underdeveloped flavor
- Adding coconut milk too early which can cause it to curdle and lose its creamy texture
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 380 calories, 18g protein, 62g carbs, 7g fat, 14g fiber.
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