Are you in search of a hearty dish that warms the soul while also fulfilling your nutritional needs? Look no further than this Spicy Lentils and Spinach recipe! Bursting with flavors and packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is great for both casual family dinners and impressive gatherings. The wonderful combination of spices not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a rich source of protein and fiber from the lentils and greens. Plus, it’s both easy to make and adaptable to suit your taste preferences—whether you prefer a little heat or a milder version.
This Spicy Lentils and Spinach recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve it alongside fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious juices, with naan for that perfect handheld experience, or you can enjoy it on its own as a comforting bowl of goodness. Whether using a stove top or an Instant Pot, you’ll find that this dish comes together beautifully and effortlessly, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Let’s dive into the details and explore why you’ll want to make this dish a staple in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Lentils and Spinach
This recipe isn’t just another lentil dish—here’s why it stands out:
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala creates a warm and aromatic dish that’s hard to resist.
- Nutritious: Lentils and spinach are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this a wholesome meal choice.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, with rice, or alongside naan. You can also adjust the heat level by changing the number of chilies.
- Quick & Easy: This dish can be prepared in under an hour, especially with the Instant Pot method for speedy cooking.
- Customizable: Add other vegetables or toppings as per your preference, making it uniquely yours!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before embarking on your culinary adventure, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by cleaning your workspace, as a tidy kitchen enhances focus and efficiency. For this recipe, you will need a large pot if using the stove method or an Instant Pot if you prefer a pressure-cooked version. Equip yourself with a cutting board, knife, stirring spoon, and measuring cups for precise ingredient measurements.
Having all ingredients ready and chopped will make the cooking process smooth, so consider creating a mise en place—a French culinary practice of prepping all ingredients beforehand. This way, you won’t have to scramble once you begin cooking. With these simple prep steps done, you’ll find the cooking process not only easy but enjoyable.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for your Spicy Lentils and Spinach dish:
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 2 green chilies, halved lengthwise
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 360ml (1½ cups) water
- 160g (¾ cup) dried brown or green lentils
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 120g (½ cup) passata or crushed tomatoes
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 courgette (zucchini), chopped
- 3 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Low-calorie cooking spray
- Optional to serve: 4 tbsp fat-free plain yoghurt, chopped fresh coriander
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In your chosen pot or Instant Pot, start by adding a light spray of low-calorie cooking spray and heating it over medium-high. Once hot, throw in the finely chopped onion, crushed garlic cloves, and grated ginger. Sauté these aromatics until the onion becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. If they start to stick, add a splash of water to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add the Spices
After your onions, garlic, and ginger are softened and fragrant, it’s time to elevate the flavor. Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala, cooking for another minute. This step’s critical as it helps to release the essential oils from the spices, filling your kitchen with an irresistible scent!
Step 3: Combine the Vegetables and Lentils
Now, add a colorful array of vegetables: chopped courgette, carrots, green chilies, and the dried lentils. Pour in the passata (or crushed tomatoes), followed by the water and the salt. Stir everything well, ensuring that the lentils and veggies are evenly coated with the flavorful spice mixture.
Step 4: Cook the Lentils
If using the stove top, bring your mixture to a boil before reducing the heat, covering, and letting it simmer for about 45 minutes until the lentils are tender. If you are opting for the Instant Pot method, lock the lid and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
Step 5: Add the Spinach
Once your lentils are cooked, uncover and add in the three cups of chopped fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts and brightens in color. This step not only adds nutrition but also enhances the dish’s visual appeal with fresh greens.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Spicy Lentils and Spinach is ready! If desired, serve it topped with a spoonful of fat-free plain yoghurt and a sprinkle of chopped fresh coriander for an extra layer of flavor.
Variations
Feel free to customize this dish according to what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences:
- Protein: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost.
- Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, peas, or kale for added nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with cinnamon or chili powder for different flavor profiles.
Cooking Notes
- For creamier consistency, add a splash of coconut milk before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Feel free to double the spices for a more intense flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside warm naan for a fulfilling meal!
- Pair with a simple cucumber salad to complement the spices.
Tips
- Always rinse lentils under cold water before cooking to remove any debris or dirt.
- If you like it spicy, increase the number of green chilies or add some diced jalapeños.
- Consider making a large batch and freezing portions for quick meals later on.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes (stovetop) or 20 minutes (Instant Pot)
- Total Time: 55 minutes (stovetop) or 30 minutes (Instant Pot)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 290 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 500mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly; simply skip the yogurt topping or choose a non-dairy alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Cool the leftovers to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well in this recipe. Add it at the end and let it thaw and heat through.
What can I serve this dish with?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, naan, or even a side salad for a fresh crunch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Spicy Lentils and Spinach recipe is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience filled with vibrant flavors and comforting warmth. It stands as a perfect illustration of how cooking can be both simple and rewarding. As you experiment with variations and find the perfect balance of spices that suit your palate, we encourage you to share your experiences in the comments below. Do you have your own special twist to add? Or perhaps you’ve tried it with a unique side? We’d love to hear from you and inspire others to explore the boundless possibilities that come with cooking this nutritious dish!
Print
Spicy Lentils and Spinach
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A hearty dish that warms the soul and fulfills nutritional needs, packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 2 green chilies, halved lengthwise
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 360ml (1½ cups) water
- 160g (¾ cup) dried brown or green lentils
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 120g (½ cup) passata or crushed tomatoes
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 courgette (zucchini), chopped
- 3 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Low-calorie cooking spray
- Optional to serve: 4 tbsp fat-free plain yoghurt, chopped fresh coriander
Instructions
- In your chosen pot or Instant Pot, start by adding a light spray of low-calorie cooking spray and heating it over medium-high. Once hot, throw in the finely chopped onion, crushed garlic cloves, and grated ginger. Sauté these aromatics until the onion becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. If they start to stick, add a splash of water to prevent burning.
- After your onions, garlic, and ginger are softened and fragrant, it’s time to elevate the flavor. Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala, cooking for another minute. This step’s critical as it helps to release the essential oils from the spices, filling your kitchen with an irresistible scent!
- Now, add a colorful array of vegetables: chopped courgette, carrots, green chilies, and the dried lentils. Pour in the passata (or crushed tomatoes), followed by the water and the salt. Stir everything well, ensuring that the lentils and veggies are evenly coated with the flavorful spice mixture.
- If using the stove top, bring your mixture to a boil before reducing the heat, covering, and letting it simmer for about 45 minutes until the lentils are tender. If you are opting for the Instant Pot method, lock the lid and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
- Once your lentils are cooked, uncover and add in the three cups of chopped fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts and brightens in color. This step not only adds nutrition but also enhances the dish’s visual appeal with fresh greens.
- Your delicious Spicy Lentils and Spinach is ready! If desired, serve it topped with a spoonful of fat-free plain yoghurt and a sprinkle of chopped fresh coriander for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
For creamier consistency, add a splash of coconut milk before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Feel free to double the spices for a more intense flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Protein: 15 g