Description
Creamy Marry Me Lentils is a comforting and flavorful vegetarian dish made with tender green or brown lentils simmered in a rich coconut milk broth, enhanced with aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, and paprika, and finished with fresh spinach. Perfect for a hearty, nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Lentils and Broth
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Spices
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
Other
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Prepare Lentils and Aromatics: Rinse the lentils under cool water until the water runs clear to remove any dust or impurities. Dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic cloves so they’re ready to use.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Add Lentils and Spices: Stir in the rinsed lentils along with ground cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Sauté for 1-2 minutes to coat the lentils evenly with the spices, releasing their aromas.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and full-fat coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on medium heat.
- Cook Lentils: Partially cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the lentils simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and fully cooked.
- Add Spinach: Just before serving, stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until they are wilted, adding a fresh burst of color and nutrients to the dish.
Notes
- Use green or brown lentils as they hold their shape well during cooking. Red lentils would become mushy.
- Adjust the spices to your taste; add a pinch of chili powder for extra heat if desired.
- This dish can be served over rice, quinoa, or with warm naan bread for a complete meal.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- For a creamier texture, blend part of the lentils before adding spinach.
