This hearty dish combines nutritious lentils with fresh spinach, simmered in aromatic Indian spices for a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
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Start by heating some oil in a heavy pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to turn golden brown—this should take about 10 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells delicious.
Next, stir in the chicken broth, lentils, half a cup of water, crushed garlic, and all the spices—coriander, salt, cumin, chili powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cayenne pepper, and a bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently for about 35 minutes, or until the lentils are nice and soft.
While the lentils are cooking, put the spinach in a microwave-safe bowl with a little water (about a quarter cup) and microwave it for 5 minutes. Give it a stir, then heat it for another 5 minutes until it’s completely wilted. Let it cool a bit, then drain off the water and squeeze out any extra moisture.
Finally, mix the spinach into the lentils, cover the pan again, and let it simmer for another 10 minutes so all the flavors come together and everything is warmed through.
- Rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any impurities.
- Use fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch.
- Toast the spices lightly in oil at the start to bring out their aroma.
This dish is a wonderful blend of nutritious ingredients and bold flavors. It’s packed with protein and iron from lentils and spinach, making it both healthy and satisfying. The spices add warmth and depth, perfect for a comforting meal any day.
Serve this dish with warm basmati rice or soft naan bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice on top can add a refreshing contrast. It also pairs well with a simple cucumber salad.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it feels too thick. This dish can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw overnight before reheating.
