SPICY LENTIL STEW

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Spicy Lentil Stew image

Categories     Bean     Stew     Winter     Gourmet

Yield Makes 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 1/2 cups brown lentils
2 cinnamon sticks
2 cardamom pods*
2 large onions
2 medium vine-ripened tomatoes
1 fresh jalapeƱo chile
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 tablespoonCape Malay masala (Indian spice blend)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander seeds
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
4 cups water, plus additional if necessary
3 medium zucchini (about 1 pound total)
Garnish: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Accompaniments: steamed rice

Steps:

  • Pick over lentils. In a bowl soak lentils in water to cover 1 hour. Wrap cinnamon sticks and cardamom pods in a small square of cheesecloth and with kitchen string tie into a bundle. Separately chop onions and tomatoes. Wearing rubber gloves, seed and devein chile and finely chop.
  • In a 4-quart kettle cook onions in oil with cheesecloth bundle over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until onions are softened. Stir in tomatoes, chile, garlic, masala, cumin, coriander seeds, and turmeric and simmer 10 minutes.
  • Drain lentils in a sieve and add to onion mixture with 4 cups water. Simmer mixture, uncovered, adding more water if necessary to keep ingredients just covered with liquid, until lentils are very soft, about 40 minutes.
  • Cut zucchini into 1/8-inch-thick rounds. Discard cheesecloth bundle and arrange zucchini in an even layer on top of curry. Cook curry, covered, until zucchini is tender about 10 minutes.
  • Sprinkle curry with cilantro and serve over rice.
  • *Available at East Indian markets and some specialty food shops.

Clement Simpson
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This recipe gets two thumbs up from me!


Premraj Neupane
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This stew is a must-try for anyone who loves spicy food.


Markus 2.0
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I would definitely recommend this recipe to anyone who loves lentils.


Derrick Terry
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This is one of my favorite lentil recipes. It's so hearty and satisfying.


Allen Luvice
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This stew is a great meal-prep option. It reheats well and is just as delicious the next day.


Mazharul Islam Tazul
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I've made this stew several times now, and it's always a crowd-pleaser.


Rashid Ustad
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This recipe is a great way to use up leftover lentils.


Larissa Pilcher
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I'm not a huge fan of spicy food, but this stew was the perfect amount of heat. It was just enough to give it a little kick without being overwhelming.


Portia Molatedi
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This stew is so flavorful and comforting. I especially love the addition of the coconut milk.


Najam Abbas
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I love how easy this recipe is to follow. I was able to make it in under an hour, and it turned out delicious!


Starlynn Reeber
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This spicy lentil stew was a hit with my family! The lentils were cooked perfectly and the flavors were so rich and satisfying.