One-Pot Spiced Creamy Lentils and Sweet Potatoes
This comforting dish combines earthy lentils, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices simmered in a creamy coconut-tomato base. It’s hearty yet wholesome, perfect as a main meal served with rice, quinoa, or flatbread. Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup easy!
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 35 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
1 ½ tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp turmeric
1 medium sweet potato, peeled & diced (about 2 cups)
1 cup red lentils (rinsed well)
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, blended)
1 can (400ml) coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Sauté aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, cook 4–5 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add spices
Stir in cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric. Toast for 30 seconds to release flavor.
3. Cook the base
Add diced sweet potato, lentils, tomatoes, coconut milk, and broth. Stir well.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
4. Simmer until tender
Cover partially and cook 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes and lentils are soft and creamy.
5. Finish & serve
Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Garnish with cilantro or parsley.
Serve warm with rice, quinoa, or warm flatbread.
Notes & Tips
Use red or yellow lentils for creaminess (green/brown lentils hold shape more).
For extra richness, stir in 1 tbsp of nut butter (cashew/almond) near the end.
Add chopped spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes for a green boost.
Make ahead — tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make it without coconut milk?
Yes! Swap with Greek yogurt (added off heat) or cream for similar creaminess.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely — cool, store in airtight containers, freeze up to 3 months.
Q: What can I pair it with?
Basmati rice, quinoa, couscous, or crusty bread.
Nutrition information
Calories: 390
Protein: 13g
Carbs: 52g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 13g