Green curry lentils in a Crock Pot slow cooker

Delicious Green Curry Lentil Recipe in a Slow Cooker Crock Pot

If you're looking for a healthy, tasty, and easy-to-make recipe, you've come to the right place! Green curry lentils in a slow cooker Crock Pot is a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also provide you with valuable nutritional benefits. Moreover, this Thai dish is perfect for days when you want to enjoy good food without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 4 hours (High)
Total: 4 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 250 g green lentils
- 500 ml vegetable broth or water
- 1 large onion
- 2 medium potatoes
- 200 g fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons green curry (or to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: one tablespoon of olive oil for extra flavor

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Green lentils: Start by rinsing the lentils well under cold running water. It is important to ensure that no impurities or dust remain. Green lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, and they are also rich in minerals like iron and magnesium.

2. Onion: Peel and wash the onion thoroughly. Cut it into large pieces. The onion adds a sweet and deep flavor to the dish, contributing to the complexity of the taste.

3. Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. These vegetables will blend perfectly with the lentils, providing a pleasant contrast of textures.

4. Spinach: If using fresh spinach, wash it well and cut it into strips. Spinach is an excellent choice for adding color and nutrients, being rich in vitamins A, C, and K.

Cooking in a Slow Cooker

1. Combining the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the rinsed lentils, chopped onion, cubed potatoes, and green curry. If desired, you can also add a tablespoon of olive oil for extra flavor.

2. Adding the liquid: Pour the vegetable broth or water over the vegetable mixture. Make sure all the ingredients are covered with liquid. This will help the lentils cook evenly and absorb the flavors.

3. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt to taste. You can also add other spices like black pepper or a pinch of turmeric for an even more intense flavor.

4. Setting the slow cooker: Cover the Crock Pot and set it to High. Let it cook for 4 hours. During this time, the lentils will soften, and the flavors will blend perfectly.

5. Adding the spinach: After 4 hours, open the Crock Pot and add the fresh spinach. Gently stir to incorporate it into the dish. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes until the spinach wilts and becomes vibrant.

Serving

Green curry lentils can be served on their own or alongside steamed rice. The rice absorbs the intense flavors of the curry and adds a pleasant texture. If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can sprinkle some fresh coriander leaves or lemon juice on top.

Tips and Variations

- Vegetable variations: You can also add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini to vary the recipe. These will combine perfectly with the lentils and green curry.
- Additional proteins: If you want a heartier meal, you can add cubes of tofu or marinated chicken. Cook them separately and add them in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Customized curry: Adjust the amount of green curry according to your preferences. If you like your food spicier, you can also add a pinch of chili.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also very nutritious. Green lentils are rich in plant-based proteins and fiber, making them ideal for vegans and vegetarians. They are also an excellent source of antioxidants and minerals. Green curry, besides providing a distinctive flavor, has anti-inflammatory properties due to its ingredients like ginger and chili.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of lentils? Yes, you can use red or yellow lentils, but the cooking time will be shorter, so be mindful of the texture.
- What else can I add for a more intense flavor? You can add soy sauce or peanut paste for an extra touch of flavor.
- Can I freeze green curry lentils? Absolutely! This recipe freezes excellently, so you can prepare it in advance for busy days.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, you can pair this green curry lentil dish with a fresh salad of crunchy vegetables or a refreshing drink based on green tea. Additionally, a slice of whole-grain bread or pita can perfectly complement this dish.

I hope this green curry lentil recipe in a slow cooker Crock Pot brings you joy in the kitchen and at your table! Cook with love and remember to enjoy every moment spent around the table. Enjoy your meal!