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Spicy Lentils and Spinach

Spicy Lentils and Spinach: Your New Comfort Food Favorite

Spicy Lentils and Spinach is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious dish perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • Fat Free Natural Yoghurt Optional topping
  • 1 medium Onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 inch Ginger grated
For the Vegetables
  • 2 medium Carrots chopped
  • 1 medium Courgette (Zucchini) chopped
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach washed
For the Protein
  • 1 cup Green or Brown Lentils rinsed
For the Liquid
  • 4 cups Water or stock
  • 1 cup Passata (or Crushed Tomatoes)
For the Heat and Spice
  • 2 medium Green Chilies adjust according to preference
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala adjust to taste
Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste
For Cooking
  • 2 sprays Low-Calorie Spray for sautéing

Equipment

  • large saucepan
  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Lentils and Spinach
  1. In a large saucepan or Instant Pot, spray the bottom with low-calorie cooking spray and heat over medium-high. Add finely chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until translucent.
  2. Once the aromatic base is ready, stir in the ground spices: cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Mix for 1-2 minutes to form a fragrant paste.
  3. Introduce the chopped carrots and courgette into the pan, stirring well to combine. Add in the rinsed lentils, green chilies, passata, water, and a pinch of salt.
  4. If using the stovetop, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes. For Instant Pot, secure the lid, set to manual high pressure, and cook for 10 minutes.
  5. After cooking, release the pressure if using the Instant Pot, or remove from heat. Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt for 2-3 minutes.
  6. For an extra creamy touch, mix yogurt with coriander and lemon juice. Serve warm with rice or flatbreads.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 2gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 15gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 6000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Feel free to mix in other seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and variety. Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better.

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