Lentil and Vegetable Curry

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, peas, broccoli, etc.), chopped

• 2 tablespoons curry powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)

• Juice from 1 lime

• 1/2 tablespoon tamari or soya sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

• Fresh lime for serving

• Cooked rice or naan for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare Lentils: Cook the lentils according to package instructions. Drain any excess water and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

3. Spice it Up: Add curry powder, salt, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and aromatics with the spices.

4. Vegetables and Tomatoes: Add the mixed vegetables to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir to combine.

5. Simmer: Pour in the coconut milk and cooked lentils. Stir the mixture well, bring it to a simmer, and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir in Tamari and Lime Juice.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper. If you prefer a creamier curry, add more coconut milk.

7. Serve: Once the vegetables are tender, and the curry has thickened, remove it from heat. Serve the vegan lentil and vegetable curry over cooked rice or with naan. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Squeeze in some fresh lime juice for extra flavor! Feel free to top with some avocado too :)

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful vegan lentil and vegetable curry!