Savory Coconut Curry Lentil Stew with Sweet Potatoes

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-12 · Updated 2026-04-12

A comforting, one-pot stew featuring earthy lentils and sweet potatoes simmered in a fragrant coconut milk curry base. This Indian-inspired one-pot recipe (vegetarian, gluten-free), ready in about 50 minutes, pairs brown lentils, sweet potatoes, coconut milk for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a quick salad. 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 brown lentils
• 2 medium, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes sweet potatoes
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 medium, finely chopped onion
• 3 cloves, minced garlic
• 2 tsp curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot over medium heat, add 1/2 cup water and bring to a simmer. Add 1 cup brown lentils and 2 medium peeled, diced sweet potatoes (1/2-inch cubes), stirring to coat. Cook for 3 minutes until lentils begin to soften.
2. Step 2: Add 1 medium finely chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 2 tsp curry powder. Sauté for 4 minutes until onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Step 3: Pour in 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk, 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice), and 2 cups vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 25 minutes, stirring once, until sweet potatoes are tender and lentils are fully cooked.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes until flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.