Coconut Pumpkin and Red Lentil Curry with Subtle Aromatic Spices
A Cozy, Nourishing, and Fragrant One-Pot Vegan Delight
When it comes to wholesome comfort food, nothing compares to a steamy bowl of homemade curry. Today, I’m bringing you an incredibly easy, flavor-packed, and nutritious recipe: Coconut Pumpkin and Red Lentil Curry with Subtle Aromatic Spices. Whether you’re a longtime vegan, experimenting with plant-based meals, or simply in search of a cozy weeknight dinner, this one-pot wonder checks all the boxes.
Made with pantry staples like red lentils and coconut milk and infused with warming spices like turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon, this curry brings together sweet pumpkin, creamy texture, and bold flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Curry
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✅ Hearty & Healthy: Loaded with protein-packed lentils, beta-carotene-rich pumpkin, and anti-inflammatory spices.
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✅ Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free: Perfect for a wide range of dietary needs.
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✅ One-Pot Magic: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
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✅ Ready in Under 45 Minutes: Ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Curry:
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1 tablespoon coconut oil (or any cooking oil)
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
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1 teaspoon ground turmeric
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon ground coriander
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
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1 cup red lentils, rinsed
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3 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed
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1 can (400ml) coconut milk
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2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
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1 large tomato, diced (or 1/2 cup canned)
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1 tablespoon lime juice (or lemon juice)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: 1–2 teaspoons curry powder or garam masala
For Garnish:
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Fresh cilantro
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Optional: lime wedges, chili oil, or a swirl of coconut cream
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent—don’t rush this step, as the sweetness of the onion lays the flavor foundation.
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic & Ginger
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 2 minutes, letting those fragrant oils fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Add the turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and red chili flakes. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to bloom the spices and unlock their depth.
Step 4: Build the Base
Toss in the red lentils, pumpkin cubes, and diced tomato. Stir well so everything is evenly coated. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, mixing thoroughly.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the curry to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and the pumpkin is tender. Add a splash of extra broth if it thickens too much.
Step 6: Season and Balance
Stir in the lime juice, salt, and pepper. If using curry powder or garam masala for extra dimension, now’s the time to add it. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once the curry reaches a creamy consistency and the flavors have mingled beautifully, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with warm naan, basmati rice, or on its own as a hearty bowl of goodness.
Pro Tips for the Best Red Lentil Curry
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Pumpkin Swap: No pumpkin? Sweet potato or butternut squash work beautifully.
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Make It Creamier: For extra creaminess, blend a portion of the curry and stir it back in.
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Spice It Up: Add fresh green chilies or a drizzle of chili oil for more heat.
Storage & Meal Prep
This curry stores like a dream!
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.
Final Thoughts
This Coconut Pumpkin and Red Lentil Curry is the kind of dish that brings both comfort and nourishment to your table. It’s warm, filling, and subtly spiced with just the right kick—perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a hug in a bowl.
Ready to dive into the flavors of fall with a global twist? Bookmark this recipe, share it with a fellow food lover, and tag your creations on Instagram with #GoldenLadleKitchen!
