| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 150 | 5g | 0.5g | 24g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 5g | 7g | 0.6g |
From the rolling hills of New England to the green pastures of Ireland, my culinary journey has been a delightful blend of flavors and traditions. One recipe that has found a special place in my heart is the Spicy Jimbu Lentil Curry. This dish, with its rich tapestry of spices and wholesome ingredients, epitomizes comfort food with a twist, drawing on my roots while introducing a touch of the exotic.
Deliciously Nutritious
Lentils, the star of this curry, are a powerhouse of protein and fiber. Incorporating red lentils into your diet can help manage cholesterol levels, improve digestion, and stabilize blood sugar. Paired with an assortment of fruits like apple, mango, and raisins, the Spicy Jimbu Lentil Curry offers a burst of sweetness that complements the heat from the spices, resulting in a balanced, flavorful dish.
An Exotic Twist
What sets this curry apart is the use of Jimbu, a Himalayan herb that adds a unique aromatic touch. Often found in traditional Nepalese cuisine, Jimbu brings a depth of flavor that enriches the overall taste of the dish, making it a standout among other lentil-based recipes. If Jimbu is hard to find, you might be able to source it from specialized online retailers or try substituting with a mix of thyme and asafetida.
The Spicy Jimbu Lentil Curry is similar to a classic dal but is elevated by the addition of fruits and the unique Jimbu herb. It’s perfect for those seeking a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and intriguingly different. Whether served with cooked rice or naan, this curry is sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
A Recipe to Cherish
Cooking this dish always brings to mind cherished family memories and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. With Laura by my side and our baby boy in tow, meal times are extra special, and recipes like the Spicy Jimbu Lentil Curry make it even more so. It’s a dish that symbolizes warmth, family, and the joy of bringing diverse flavors into our home.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- 1 cup mango, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup Jimbu (Himalayan herb), crushed
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice or naan, for serving
Method
Step One
Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
Step Two
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step Four
Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, and chili powder. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the spices release their flavors.
Step Five
Add the chopped tomatoes, diced apple, chopped mango, and raisins to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step Six
Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step Seven
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the curry for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the mixture has thickened.
Step Eight
Stir in the crushed Jimbu and season with salt to taste. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step Nine
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with cooked rice or naan. Enjoy your Spicy Jimbu Lentil Curry!
