I grew up eating lentils at least once a week. My mom thought very highly of lentils, beans, and legumes. Growing up, lentils with meat such as chicken or beef was a very common dish at home and I loved it very much. This is my version of my mom’s curry. It’s made with curry powder instead of her long list of Indian spices. I am using dried yellow lentils, but any lentils such as red or green would work as well. Lentils are more than just a tasty addition to your chicken curry – they also offer a plethora of health benefits. Packed with fiber, protein, and a range of essential nutrients, lentils are a nutritional powerhouse that can enhance your overall well-being.
One of the key benefits of lentils is their high fiber content. Fiber is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system and can help regulate blood sugar levels. By incorporating lentils into your chicken curry, you’re not only adding a delightful texture, but also helping to support your digestive health. Lentils are also an excellent source of plant-based protein. Lentils can be a fantastic alternative if you’re looking to reduce your meat consumption or follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. They provide substantial protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and promoting satiety. In addition to fiber and protein, lentils contain an array of vitamins and minerals. They are rich in folate, a B vitamin crucial in cell growth and development. Lentils also provide iron, important for oxygen transport throughout the body, as well as magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Another remarkable aspect of lentils is their versatility. With various types of lentils available, you can experiment with flavors and textures to suit your preferences. From red lentils that break down and create a creamy base to green or brown lentils that hold their shape, there’s a type of lentil for every culinary creation. By incorporating lentils into your chicken curry, you not only elevate the flavors of the dish but also boost its nutritional value. So, get ready to savor a meal that not only delights your taste buds but also nourishes your body
Why is this the best recipe?
One word: versatility. Lentils are an incredible ingredient that brings a whole new dimension to this classic dish. When it comes to lentils, the possibilities are endless. With various types of lentils available, you have the freedom to experiment with flavors and textures to suit your preferences. Red lentils, for example, break down during cooking and create a creamy base that adds a richness to the curry. On the other hand, green or brown lentils hold their shape, providing a satisfying bite and adding a hearty element to the dish. Whatever your preference, there’s a type of lentil for every culinary creation. But it’s not just about the taste and texture. By incorporating lentils into your chicken curry, you are also boosting its nutritional value. Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with protein, fiber, iron, and a range of vitamins and minerals. Not only does this make the dish more satisfying and nourishing, but it also adds a healthy twist to a classic comfort food
Ingredients and substitutes
You’ll need the ingredients for your lentil chicken curry: boneless chicken pieces, lentils, onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, coconut milk, and fresh cilantro for garnish. These ingredients work together to create a harmony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. I am using dry yellow lentils, but red or green work just as well. These lentils need to be soaked in warm water for at least an hour. Alternatively, you can use one can of lentils. I like using chicken thighs, and yet chicken breast works just as well. You can use store-bought curry powder or make it yourself. You probably already have the spices needed to make this spice mix such as such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. For those who prefer a milder curry, you can substitute the garam masala with a milder spice blend or even a pinch of cinnamon for a hint of warmth. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the spices to suit your preferences. Garam masala adds warmth and flavor to the curry. You can use store-bought or my recipe to make some homemade garam masala. Coconut milk – Gives this curry a rich and creamy flavor. If you’re looking to make substitutes based on your preferences or dietary needs, there are a few options to consider. For a vegetarian twist, you can omit the chicken altogether and use extra lentils as the main protein source. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely.
Step-by-step: Chicken Lentil Curry
Season chicken – Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces. Place in a medium bowl and season with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of curry powder – combine well and leave to marinate for 15 mins.Pro tip – This chicken can be left to marinate for up to 12 hours in the fridge.
Saute chicken – In a heavy bottom saute pan or cast-iron skillet, add 1 tbsp oil. Saute the chicken on medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the pan and keep warm.Pro tip -We want to get some color on the chicken, not cook it. It will cook later in the sauce.
Saute – To the same pan, add remaining oil – Saute onions for a minute. Then add the curry leaves and bay leaves. Followed by the grated ginger and minced garlic. Saute for 2 minutes. Curry – Next, add the chopped tomatoes and curry powder. Saute until you get a nice aroma of the spices – about 2 minutes. Lentils – Then, add the lentils and 1/2 cup water or broth. Cover and cook for 7 minutes.Pro tip – Lentils take longer than chicken to cook so we cook them halfway before adding the chicken.
Chicken – Next, return the chicken back to the pan along with the coconut milk and remaining water or broth. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until lentils are soft. Finish – Add the garam masala, tamarind paste (or vinegar). Return to a boil then taste and adjust seasoning. Serve over steamed rice or Indian bread like chapati or naan.
Tips for making lentil chicken curry:
First and foremost, ensure that you soak the lentils beforehand to soften them and reduce the cooking time. This step is crucial as it allows the lentils to absorb the flavors of the curry, resulting in a more flavorful and satisfying dish. Another important tip is time permitting to marinate the chicken before cooking. This not only adds depth of flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. You can create a simple marinade using lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight if possible, to maximize the infusion of flavors. In terms of spices, don’t hesitate to experiment and adjust according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder curry, substitute the garam masala with a milder spice blend or add a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle hint of warmth. The beauty of cooking is that you can tailor the flavors to suit your palate. To enhance your lentil chicken curry’s overall texture and richness, consider adding a dollop of creamy coconut milk towards the end of cooking. This adds a touch of indulgence, balances out the spices, and creates a luscious, velvety sauce.
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Frequently asked questions
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Creative ways to serve lentil chicken curry
One way to serve your lentil chicken curry is by pairing it with fluffy basmati rice and a side of naan bread. The aromatic flavors of the curry will beautifully complement the mild, nutty taste of basmati rice, creating a harmonious balance on your plate. Tear off a piece of warm, pillowy naan bread and use it to scoop up the curry, allowing the flavors to meld together in every bite. If you’re looking to amp up the visual appeal of your lentil chicken curry, consider serving it in individual whole wheat bread bowls. Hollowed out bread bowls not only add a rustic touch to your presentation but also provide a unique and edible vessel for your curry. Simply ladle the steaming lentil chicken curry into each bread bowl, and watch as your guests’ eyes widen with delight. For a lighter and more refreshing twist, serve your lentil chicken curry over a bed of crisp mixed greens. The vibrant colors and crunchy textures of the greens will create a delightful contrast to the warm, hearty curry. Drizzle a tangy dressing over the greens, such as a lemon vinaigrette or a yogurt-based sauce, to tie all the flavors together and add a refreshing zing to each bite. To showcase your lentil chicken curry in an elegant and sophisticated manner, consider serving it in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. Not only will this individual serving style make your guests feel special, but it also allows for a beautiful presentation of the curry. Top each ramekin with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of Greek yogurt, adding an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor complexity.
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