This red lentil curry recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner. Nourishing, spicy, and packed with flavor, this comfort meal is made with easy pantry ingredients and comes together in less than 45 minutes.
Cook onions, garlic, and ginger: In a big pot, warm oil on medium-low heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger, and cook on medium-low heat until the onion starts to appear translucent and smells fragrant.
Add the spices: Stir in the jalapeño, cumin, turmeric, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper, and cook for a minute until it becomes fragrant.
Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the red lentils, tomatoes, coconut milk, and water. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook covered, stirring frequently, until the lentils are soft and tender, about 25 minutes. Add more water, if needed, to adjust consistency.
Add lime juice and cilantro: Turn off the heat completely and add the lime juice and fresh cilantro to the curry. The lime juice adds tanginess to the dish while the cilantro adds more flavor.
Serve and enjoy: If you want to save it for later, be sure to completely cool down the red lentil curry before storing it.