Go Back
Mary Berry Red Lentil Curry

Mary Berry Red Lentil Curry Recipe

Mary Berry Red Lentil Curry features creamy lentils simmered with coconut milk, aromatic spices, and fresh ginger in a fragrant, warming sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, this easy vegetarian curry delivers bold Indian flavors perfect for serving with rice or warm bread.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ cups red lentils
  • 1 piece fresh ginger 2.5 cm, peeled and grated
  • 1½ fresh jalapeños halved, seeded, and finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • ½ cup coconut milk
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 tsp black mustard seeds

Method
 

  1. Place the lentils in a saucepan and add 3¾ cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
  2. While the lentils are cooking, use a mortar and pestle to grind the ginger, two-thirds of the jalapeños, and 2 garlic cloves into a smooth paste. Once the lentils are tender, stir this aromatic paste into the pot.
  3. Add the coconut milk, turmeric, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to the lentils. Cook gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until the coconut milk dissolves and incorporates fully into the mixture. Increase the heat and continue cooking for 5 minutes or until any excess liquid has evaporated and the lentils have a thick, creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed.
  4. Crush the remaining garlic clove and set it aside. Melt the butter in a small frying pan over medium heat and add the mustard seeds. Watch carefully as they heat up, and as soon as they begin to pop and sizzle, immediately remove the pan from the heat. Quickly stir in the crushed garlic and the remaining chopped chile to create a fragrant tempering oil.
  5. Transfer the cooked lentils to a serving dish and pour the hot mustard seed mixture over the top. Garnish with grated coconut and the remaining chopped jalapeños for extra heat and texture. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish or main course.

Notes

Health Benefits of Red Lentils

Red lentils are nutritional powerhouses packed with plant-based protein, providing approximately 18 grams per cooked cup, making them excellent for vegetarians and vegans. They're rich in essential amino acids that support muscle repair, immune function, and overall cellular health. This high protein content also promotes satiety, helping you feel fuller longer and supporting healthy weight management.
These versatile legumes are loaded with dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. The soluble fiber in red lentils can lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. They're also an excellent source of folate, crucial for pregnant women as it supports fetal development and prevents neural tube defects.
Red lentils contain impressive amounts of iron, which combats anemia and boosts energy levels, plus magnesium and potassium that support cardiovascular health and maintain healthy blood pressure. They're rich in antioxidants and polyphenols that fight inflammation and oxidative stress. Low in fat and naturally gluten-free, red lentils are budget-friendly superfoods that support overall wellness while being incredibly easy to digest compared to other legumes.