Lentils are a humble little legume that’s way underrated and super versatile. If you are a curry fan but aren’t so sure about lentils give this dish a try and you won’t look back. Bonus- lentils are packed with all sorts of healthy goodness. They are high in protein, iron, fiber and folate. Plus is super fun to make your own curry.

Red Lentils with Homemade Curry

2 cups red lentils

1 large yellow or white onion, diced

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 (14.25 ounce) can diced fire roasted tomatoes.

Homemade Curry Mixture

2 tablespoons curry powder

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon white sugar

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon ginger root, minced ( I used refrigerated ginger paste)

Prepared Jasmine rice (white or brown)

1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional- more if desired, not traditional with curry but it’s such a nice touch)

Directions

1. Wash the lentils in cold water until the water runs clear (this is very important or the lentils will get "scummy"), put the lentils in a pot with water to cover and simmer covered until lentils tender (add more water if necessary).

2. While the lentils are cooking: In a large skillet or saucepan, Saute the onions in vegetable oil, until onions are translucent and tender.

3. While the onions are cooking, combine the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, salt, sugar, garlic, and ginger in a mixing bowl (or pestle and mortar). Mix well. When the onions are cooked, add the curry mixture to the onions and cook over a high heat stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes.

4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and reduce heat, allow the curry base to simmer until the lentils are ready.

5. When the lentils are tender drain them briefly (they should have absorbed most of the water but you don't want the curry to be too mushy). Mix the lentils into the hot curry mixture and serve over hot rice and cilantro on top.

Mix it all together and you get this beautiful aromatic curry.