One-Pot Coconut Curry Lentil Stew

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-25 · Updated 2026-04-25

A warming, hearty lentil stew simmered in creamy coconut milk and fragrant spices, perfect for a cozy meal. This Indian-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 45 minutes, pairs red lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 cup, rinsed red lentils
• 1 can (14 oz), full fat coconut milk
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 large, diced yellow onion
• 4, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp, grated fresh ginger
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

The Dutch oven we’d braise this in → Best Dutch Ovens for 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 large diced yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
2. Step 2: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add 1 tsp ground turmeric, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp garam masala, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, and 1 1/2 tsp salt; stir well to coat the onion mixture and toast the spices for 1 minute.
4. Step 4: Pour in 3 cups vegetable broth, 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk, and 1 cup rinsed red lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and stew has thickened.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp fresh lime juice and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Serve warm alone or over steamed rice.