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Lentil & Chickpea High-Protein Curry

Warm, fragrant, and packed with plant-based protein, this Lentil & Chickpea Curry is the ultimate feel-good dish. It’s rich in flavor, deeply satisfying, and comes together with simple pantry staples — perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil for richer flavor
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • Spices:
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 ½ tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • ½ –1 tsp chili powder or cayenne adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Pinch of salt & black pepper
  • Core Ingredients:
  • 1 cup dried red lentils rinsed (green or brown lentils also work, but cooking time may be longer)
  • 1 can 15 oz chickpeas, drained & rinsed (or 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas)
  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for deeper flavor)
  • 1 can 14 oz coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess or light for fewer calories)
  • 2 ½ cups vegetable broth or water, adjust for consistency
  • Optional Add-Ins:
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale chopped
  • 1 medium sweet potato or carrot diced (for extra heartiness)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Squeeze of lime or lemon juice for brightness

Instructions
 

  • Sauté the Aromatics:
  • Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened and golden. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  • Toast the Spices:
  • Add cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the spices release their aroma.
  • Add Core Ingredients:
  • Stir in lentils, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and broth. Mix well to combine.
  • Simmer the Curry:
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and the curry is thick and creamy. (If it gets too thick, add a splash more broth or water.)
  • Add Veggies (Optional):
  • In the last 5–10 minutes of cooking, stir in spinach, kale, or diced vegetables until tender and wilted.
  • Finish & Adjust:
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili if needed. A squeeze of lime or lemon at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.
  • Serve & Enjoy:
  • Ladle the curry into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with rice, naan, or quinoa for a hearty, high-protein meal.
Keyword Lentil & Chickpea High-Protein Curry
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