Description

A flavorful and creamy red curry lentils recipe made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. This dish combines spices like red curry paste, garam masala, turmeric, and cayenne pepper with brown lentils, coconut milk, and tomato sauce to create a rich, comforting meal perfect for serving over rice. The recipe is quick, healthy, and ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Lentils and Base

1 1/2 cups brown lentils
2 cups water
one 14-ounce can tomato sauce
3/4 cup coconut milk

Vegetables and Aromatics

1/2 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
one 1-inch knob of ginger, minced

Spices and Seasonings

2 tablespoons red curry paste
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
a few good shakes of cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon coarse salt (more to taste)

Finishing Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter or ghee (optional)
cilantro for garnishing
rice for serving

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: Place all ingredients except the coconut milk, butter, and cilantro into the Instant Pot. This includes lentils, onion, garlic, ginger, spices, tomato sauce, water, and salt. Ensure everything is evenly mixed for consistent flavor.
Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. After the cooking cycle completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes to let the lentils absorb the flavors fully and finish cooking gently.
Add Coconut Milk and Butter: Carefully open the lid, stir in the coconut milk and butter or ghee to add richness and creaminess. Taste the curry and adjust seasonings as needed to suit your preference.
Serve: Spoon the red curry lentils over cooked rice, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy the wholesome, spicy, and creamy lentil curry.

Notes

This easy Instant Pot recipe makes a filling and healthy dinner that brings together creamy and spicy flavors.
You can omit the butter or ghee to keep it dairy-free.
Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
Serve with your choice of rice or flatbread for a satisfying meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 268
Sugar: 4.3 g
Sodium: 339.2 mg
Fat: 6.9 g
Saturated Fat: 5.4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 37.3 g
Fiber: 16.5 g
Protein: 14.7 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg