Description
A hearty and flavorful spicy root and lentil casserole featuring potatoes, carrots, and parsnips simmered with red lentils in a fragrant curry sauce. This comforting vegetarian dish is perfect for a warming meal served with low-fat yogurt and naan bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 700g potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 carrots, thickly sliced
- 2 parsnips, thickly sliced
Spices & Flavorings
- 2 tbsp curry paste or powder
- a small bunch of fresh coriander, roughly chopped
Liquids & Fats
- 2 tbsp sunflower or vegetable oil
- 1 litre (1¾ pints) vegetable stock
Legumes
- 100g red lentils
To Serve
- Low-fat yogurt
- Naan bread
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook the root vegetables: Add the peeled potatoes, thickly sliced carrots, and parsnips to the pan. Increase the heat and cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are golden and slightly cooked through.
- Add spices and stock: Stir in the curry paste or powder to coat the vegetables evenly. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer with lentils: Reduce the heat to low, add the red lentils, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. Cook until the lentils and vegetables are tender and the sauce thickens.
- Finish and serve: Stir in most of the fresh coriander and season to taste with salt and pepper. Heat for an additional minute, then serve topped with a spoonful of low-fat yogurt and sprinkled with the remaining coriander. Accompany with warm naan bread.
Notes
- You can substitute curry paste with your favorite curry powder for varying flavors.
- For a vegan option, use plant-based yogurt or omit it entirely.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more vegetable stock if the casserole becomes too thick.
- This dish pairs well with steamed greens or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Keywords: spicy root vegetable casserole, lentil casserole, vegetarian curry, Indian-inspired vegetarian dish, healthy lentil stew
