Jamaican Coconut Lentil Curry

Name: Jamaican Coconut Lentil Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup red or green lentils; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cumin; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: World Recipes

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Lentil Curry! It's such a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. The combination of spices and coconut milk creates a rich and creamy base that pairs wonderfully with lentils. Each bite is packed with flavor and nutrition. I especially enjoy how versatile this recipe is; you can serve it over rice, with crusty bread, or even as a filling for wraps. Plus, it's quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:49:35.036Z

When I first tried making Jamaican Coconut Lentil Curry, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such vibrant flavors in my own kitchen. I combined lentils with coconut milk, fresh ginger, and spices that meld beautifully into a warming dish. The trick I discovered is letting the curry simmer for just the right time; this allows the lentils to absorb all those lovely flavors.

Typically, I enjoy serving this curry with cilantro and a squeeze of lime to elevate the dish. The burst of freshness complements the creaminess of the coconut perfectly. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be coming back for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy coconut base infused with aromatic spices
Nutritious lentils provide a hearty texture
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

The Importance of Lentils

Lentils are not only the star ingredient in this Jamaican Coconut Lentil Curry but also a powerhouse of nutrition. They are rich in protein and fiber, making this dish hearty and satisfying. When cooking lentils, using red or green varieties will alter the texture; red lentils break down more during cooking and create a thicker curry, while green lentils maintain their shape better for a more distinct bite. Whichever you choose, be sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any impurities before adding them to the pot.

Another key factor to consider is the cooking time. Red lentils generally take about 25-30 minutes to become tender, while green lentils might require an additional 5-10 minutes. If you’re looking for a quicker meal, red lentils are your best bet, as they dissolve into a creamy consistency, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of coconut milk.

Spice It Up

Spices play a vital role in the depth of flavor in this curry. The combination of curry powder, turmeric, and cumin creates a fragrant base that works harmoniously with coconut milk. For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the spices in the pot for a minute before adding the lentils. This technique helps release the essential oils in the spices, enhancing their aroma and taste. Just be careful not to burn them; keep the heat on medium and stir frequently to prevent sticking.

If you prefer a bit more heat, try adding cayenne pepper or a chopped chili to your spice mix. This gives a punch to the otherwise creamy and mild coconut base. Conversely, if you're looking to tone down the spices for a more subtle flavor, reducing the amount of curry powder or opting for a mild blend can keep the dish enjoyable for those sensitive to spice.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Once your curry is ready, there are countless ways to enjoy it. Serving it over a bed of fluffy rice is traditional, but you can also pair it with quinoa for a nutritious twist. For a fun serving option, consider using this curry as a filling for wraps or tacos, adding crunchy vegetables like slaw for texture. If you want a touch of brightness, a splash of lime juice right before serving can elevate the entire dish.

If you're thinking ahead, this curry is great for meal prep; it stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the consistency, as it may thicken in storage. For longer storage, this curry freezes beautifully. Just let it cool, then transfer it to airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jamaican Coconut Lentil Curry

1 cup red or green lentils
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Lentils

Rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute.

Add Spices

Sprinkle in curry powder, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the rinsed lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine.

Simmer the Curry

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add chopped chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing the aromatics.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making this curry can be undercooked lentils. Make sure to monitor the cooking time and the tenderness of the lentils as they simmer. If they seem too firm after the recommended time, just add a little more broth and continue cooking in 5-minute increments until they reach your desired texture. I often check them after 25 minutes as a guideline.

Another potential problem is the curry being too thick. If you find the consistency is not to your liking, simply stir in additional vegetable broth or water. This will not only help with the thickness but also ensure that the flavors remain balanced without getting diluted.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize your curry by adding vegetables. Carrots, spinach, or bell peppers can all be excellent additions. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the pot along with the lentils for the best results. They will cook down beautifully and complement the overall texture and flavor without overpowering the curry.

For a coconut flavor kick, try topping your dish with flaked or toasted coconut before serving. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the tropical theme of the dish. Additionally, if you’re dairy-free, you're already in luck since this recipe naturally avoids dairy without sacrificing richness, thanks to the coconut milk!

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up or down is quite straightforward. For larger gatherings, simply increase the quantities proportionally. Lentils and broth can usually be cooked in larger batches without concern for adjustments, but be sure to give your pot enough room to prevent any boiling over. A larger pot also allows for better heat distribution, ensuring everything cooks evenly.

If you're halving the recipe, you can still follow the same cooking times, though be mindful that the broth may reduce more quickly. Keep an eye on the consistency and flavor towards the end; you might not need the full amount of spices. Always taste and adjust as necessary, keeping in mind that each batch can have subtle flavor variations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just rinse and add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This curry is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this curry?

Serve it over rice, quinoa, or with naan for a complete meal.