Name: Easy Vegan Lentil Curry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons coconut oil; ½ medium onion, diced; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ tablespoons freshly grated ginger; 1 small bunch carrots, diced (about 1 cup); 1 (14 ounce) can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; 2 ¾ cups water or vegetable broth; 1 cup dried brown lentils; 1 (14 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Rice, quinoa, or another grain (for serving); Naan bread (for serving); 2 tablespoons mild curry powder; ¾ teaspoon ground turmeric; ½ teaspoon coriander powder; ½ teaspoon cumin; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 8 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor, you are going to love this Easy Vegan Lentil Curry Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of warm spices, creamy coconut milk, and tender lentils that come together in a way that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or simply looking for a satisfying plant-based meal, this curry is a delightful way to brighten your dinner table with vibrant colors and cozy aromas. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but special enough to impress friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of various cooking ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface. There is a white bowl filled with small orange carrot pieces at the top left, next to an empty white bowl. Below, a round white plate holds four spices in small piles: yellow turmeric, greenish powder, light brown powder, and red chili powder. A brass measuring cup filled with green lentils sits near the center. To the right, a white bowl contains red tomato sauce. Near the bottom center, there is a whole light brown onion and a white garlic bulb. A small beige bowl has a dollop of white coconut oil, and there is a piece of light tan ginger root beside it. The bottom right shows a glass measuring jug holding a brown broth or stock. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, focusing on key ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering the signature taste and texture of the curry. From the creamy coconut milk that adds richness to the mix of spices that provide warmth and depth, every element works harmoniously.

Coconut oil: Adds a silky texture and tropical aroma that complements the spices perfectly.
Onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and a savory base for the curry.
Garlic: Provides a pungent kick and depth to the overall flavor.
Freshly grated ginger: Adds a zesty warmth and refreshing bite.
Carrots: Offer natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
Curry powder: The soul of this dish, delivering mild, comforting spice.
Ground turmeric: Gives the curry its vibrant golden hue and earthy notes.
Coriander powder: Adds a citrusy and nutty undertone.
Cumin: Provides smoky, warm flavor nuances.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a subtle, spicy heat.
Fine sea salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
Crushed tomatoes: Bring acidity and body to the sauce.
Water or vegetable broth: Used to simmer the lentils and meld the flavors together.
Dried brown lentils: The hearty protein-packed base of the curry.
Full-fat coconut milk: Adds luxurious creaminess and rounds out the spices.
Fresh cilantro: Bright, fresh garnish that lifts the whole dish.
Rice, quinoa, or naan: Perfect vehicle for soaking up every bit of the delicious curry sauce.

How to Make Easy Vegan Lentil Curry Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Start by warming the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and diced carrots. Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently to build that rich, fragrant base that will infuse every bite. This step is essential because it unlocks the natural sweetness and complex flavors locked in your fresh ingredients, setting the stage for a truly delicious curry.

Step 2: Toast the Spices

Next, add your carefully measured spices along with the salt. Turn the heat up to medium-high and stir continuously for 4 to 5 minutes. Toasting the curry powder, turmeric, coriander, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne awakens their essential oils for a more pronounced, vibrant flavor. This step is a secret to creating depth and richness that you’ll notice with every spoonful.

Step 3: Simmer with Tomatoes, Lentils, and Liquid

Reduce the heat to medium and pour in your crushed tomatoes, water or broth, and dried brown lentils. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for about 35 to 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes for even cooking. You’ll see the lentils soften and the sauce thicken beautifully during this stage. It’s where all the flavors meld into that comforting curry you’re after.

Step 4: Stir in Coconut Milk and Finish

Once the lentils are tender and the sauce looks perfectly thickened, stir in the creamy coconut milk. Keep the curry simmering on low to medium heat for an additional 5 minutes uncovered. This final cooking phase lets the coconut milk infuse the dish with smooth richness and mellow out the spices, creating that unmistakable signature flavor we all adore. Remove from heat and allow the curry to rest for 10 to 15 minutes to thicken even more.

How to Serve Easy Vegan Lentil Curry Recipe

A close-up view of a thick, orange-brown stew filled with soft carrot slices and lentils, topped with bright green cilantro leaves scattered across the surface. The stew is inside a white pot with a handle visible at the bottom left, and a wooden spoon is lifting some of the thick mixture in the middle right area of the image. The background shows a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top adds a lovely burst of herbal brightness that contrasts so well with the warm, mellow curry. If you want to elevate it a step further, a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a few thin slices of red chili can add a zesty or spicy pop, depending on your taste.

Side Dishes

This curry pairs beautifully with simple steamed rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up the sauce. Traditional naan bread is also an outstanding choice if you want to scoop and savor every bit of goodness. Roasted or steamed vegetables on the side can add nutritious crunch and color, making the meal feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Easy Vegan Lentil Curry Recipe in individual bowls topped with toppings like toasted coconut flakes, roasted pumpkin seeds, or chopped peanuts for texture. You can also transform it into a hearty baked dish by layering the curry with cooked grains and baking it under a crispy breadcrumb topping for a delightful casserole experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This curry actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to marry. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down properly before sealing the container to keep it fresh and delicious.

Freezing

Easy Vegan Lentil Curry Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

Reheating

Reheat your curry gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual servings, just be sure to stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils instead of brown lentils?

Absolutely! Red lentils cook faster and tend to become mushier, which can give your curry a creamier texture. Just reduce the simmering time to about 20 minutes and keep an eye on the consistency.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Easy Vegan Lentil Curry Recipe is designed to be mild and approachable, but if you love heat, the optional cayenne pepper can be increased or you can add fresh chili peppers to suit your spice preferences.

Can I make this curry gluten-free?

Yes! The curry itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free grains or bread substitutes like gluten-free naan or rice.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can try using cashew cream or a thick plant-based cream alternative. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I make this recipe quicker?

Using an Instant Pot or pressure cooker can cut down cooking time significantly. Follow the Instant Pot method by sautéing first, then pressure cooking the curry for 15 minutes and finishing with coconut milk. It’s perfect for busy days!

Final Thoughts

This Easy Vegan Lentil Curry Recipe is a true kitchen hero—simple to make, irresistibly comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s sure to become a beloved staple. So go ahead, dive in, and enjoy every vibrant, cozy spoonful!

Easy Vegan Lentil Curry Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need