Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry

There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry. Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the inviting aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen. This dish has been a staple in my home for cozy winter evenings, especially when the days are short and chilly. I remember the first time I made it; I was hesitant, thinking a curry might be too complicated. But to my surprise, it was as simple as tossing ingredients into a slow cooker and letting time work its magic. The combination of rich flavors from the lentils and the vibrant, hearty cauliflower makes this dish not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing.

Ingredient List for Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry

The ingredients for this dish come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component is chosen not just for taste but for the health benefits they bring to the table. The key players here are red lentils, which provide protein, cauliflower, for heartiness, and a medley of spices that transport your taste buds straight to a cozy restaurant. Together, they create a rich and satisfying meal.

• 2 cups split red lentils – These are the heart of the dish, offering a creamy texture and packed with protein.
• 1 yellow onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings warmth and aroma to the curry.
• 1 head cauliflower, chopped – Provides a hearty bite and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced – Adds a zingy kick and aids digestion.
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste – Infuses the dish with a rich, spicy essence.
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric – Not only adds color but also offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander – Contributes a light, citrusy flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin – Adds warmth and depth.
• ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper – Delivers a nice heat kick; adjust to taste.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom – Infuses a subtle sweetness and complexity.
• 1 can tomato puree (29 ounces) – Forms the curry base, rich and flavorful.
• 1 ¾ cups water – Necessary for cooking the lentils and creating the curry liquid.
• ½ cup coconut milk – Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness.
• Freshly chopped cilantro – For garnish, brings freshness to each serving.
• Brown rice, cooked quinoa, or farro – For serving; they complement the curry perfectly.

Recipe Steps for Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry

Cooking this Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry is a breeze, and the process fills your home with amazing aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy!

1. Start by placing the red lentils in the bottom of your 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them, as this helps to remove any impurities and ensures the best texture.

2. Add in the diced yellow onion, minced garlic, chopped cauliflower, and minced ginger. Each ingredient brings its own unique flavor and contributes to the overall heartiness of the dish.

3. Next, stir in the red curry paste, salt, turmeric, coriander, cumin, cayenne pepper, and cardamom. This step is crucial as it melds all the flavors together at the start.

4. Pour the tomato puree over the top of the mixture in the slow cooker. This forms a lovely base for the curry.

5. Now, refill the tomato puree can halfway with water and pour it over the top of the slow cooker ingredients. Ensure that everything is well covered with liquid. This will keep the lentils from burning and help them cook evenly.

6. Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on high for 4 to 5 hours or low for 7 to 8 hours. The lentils should be soft and the cauliflower tender.

7. Just before serving, stir in the coconut milk to add a rich creaminess that perfectly balances the spices.

8. Serve the curry over brown rice, quinoa, or farro. Top with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of freshness. Enjoy each spoonful!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Enhancing your cooking experience can make all the difference. Here are some tips to take your Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry to the next level:

• Storage: Place leftover curry in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Store curry in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently rewarm leftovers in a Dutch oven on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
• Spice Variations: If you can’t find the spices with asterisks, use 1 ½ teaspoons of garam masala instead for a different flavor.
• Healthy Additions: Consider adding more vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.

Side Dish Ideas for Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry

Serving your Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas on how to make it a complete meal:

• Steamed Rice: Serve with fluffy brown rice to soak up the rich flavors of the curry.
• Quinoa: This nutrient-rich grain adds a nice texture and is a great gluten-free option.
• Farro: Its nutty flavor provides a hearty base for the curry.
• Flatbreads: Serve with warm naan or pita to scoop up the curry.
• Salad: A simple side salad with fresh greens balances the richness of the curry.
• Pickles: Indian-style pickles can add an exciting tangy flavor that complements the dish.
• Yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt can cool down the heat and add creaminess.
• Dinner Parties: This dish is perfect for gatherings, serving multiple guests with ease.
• Winter Feasts: Ideal for cozy winter dinners, it warms you from the inside out.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry is special not just for its rich flavors and nutritional benefits but also for the ease of preparation it offers. It’s perfect for cold winter nights when you want something cozy and comforting. I encourage you to try making it for your next family dinner or gathering. You won’t regret it, and your loved ones will be begging for seconds!

Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry

The ultimate comfort food, this Slow Cooker Red Lentil Cauliflower Curry is creamy, spicy, and incredibly easy to make. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, it's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Whip it up tonight for a meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Indian

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Slow Cooker
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups split red lentils
• 1 yellow onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 head cauliflower chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger minced
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 0.5 teaspoon ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 can tomato puree (29 ounces) NOT tomato sauce
• 1.75 cups water
• 0.5 cup coconut milk use full fat—it’s worth it
• Freshly chopped cilantro for serving
• Brown rice cooked quinoa, farro, or similar for serving

Instructions

 

• Start by placing the red lentils in the bottom of your 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them, as this helps to remove any impurities and ensures the best texture.
• Add in the diced yellow onion, minced garlic, chopped cauliflower, and minced ginger. Each ingredient brings its own unique flavor and contributes to the overall heartiness of the dish.
• Next, stir in the red curry paste, salt, turmeric, coriander, cumin, cayenne pepper, and cardamom. This step is crucial as it melds all the flavors together at the start.
• Pour the tomato puree over the top of the mixture in the slow cooker. This forms a lovely base for the curry.
• Now, refill the tomato puree can halfway with water and pour it over the top of the slow cooker ingredients. Ensure that everything is well covered with liquid. This will keep the lentils from burning and help them cook evenly.
• Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on high for 4 to 5 hours or low for 7 to 8 hours. The lentils should be soft and the cauliflower tender.
• Just before serving, stir in the coconut milk to add a rich creaminess that perfectly balances the spices.
• Serve the curry over brown rice, quinoa, or farro. Top with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of freshness. Enjoy each spoonful!

Notes

• Storage: Place leftover curry in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Store curry in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently rewarm leftovers in a Dutch oven on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
• Spice Variations: If you can't find the spices with asterisks, use 1 ½ teaspoons of garam masala instead for a different flavor.
• Healthy Additions: Consider adding more vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.

Keyword Cauliflower Curry, Healthy Vegan Dinner, Red Lentil Curry, Slow Cooker Recipes

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Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.