Simple Coconut Quinoa and Lentil Curry with Lime Mango
Try this Simple Coconut Quinoa and Lentil Curry with Lime Mango recipe
Try this Simple Coconut Quinoa and Lentil Curry with Lime Mango recipe
- 2 cloves garlic minced or grated
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 red bell peppers chopped
- 2-3 carrots, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons thai red curry paste (i like to use 3)
- 1 tablespoons curry powder (i like using spicy curry powder)
- 1 (14 ounce ounce) can full fat coconut milk
- 4 cups coconut water or vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce if vegan
- 1 cup green lentils rinsed
- 1 cup mixed red and white quinoa
- 3-4 big handful baby kale
- juice + zest from 1/2 a lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro + basil chopped
- 1 mango, sliced or chopped
- 1 lime, zest + juice
- [fresh naan | http://www.halfbakedharvest.com/home greek yogurt, fresno chiles + almonds, for topping
- Carbohydrate 37.23265 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 7.5721 g
- Fiber 18.3294999432564 g
- Protein 15.03705 g
- Saturated Fat 5.985425 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (125g)
- Sodium 5.74 mg
- Sugar 18.9031500567436 g
- Trans Fat 0.63164 g
- Calories 275 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the coconut oil in a large heavy bottomed pot set over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the red pepper and carrots, cook 2-3 minutes or until lightly charred on the edges.
- Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Add the thai red curry paste and curry powder, continue cooking for another minute or until the curry is fragrant.
- Slowly pour in the coconut milk, coconut water (or broth or just water) and fish sauce or soy sauce.
- Stir to combine and then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, stir in the lentils and quinoa.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the quinoa soft.
- Stir in the kale and continue cooking, uncovered for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from the heat the and stir in the lemon juice + zest, the cilantro and basil.
- Ladle the curry into bowls and top with mango.
- Drizzle the mango with lime juice + zest.
- Garnish the curry the with a dollop of greek yogurt, fresno chilies and almonds.
- Serve with fresh naan.
Simple Coconut Quinoa and Lentil Curry with Lime Mango: A Busy Woman's Delight
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between early morning school runs, demanding deadlines at the office, and the never-ending cycle of laundry and meal prep, finding time for anything beyond the bare essentials often feels impossible. Yet, maintaining a healthy and delicious diet remains a priority, not just for my physical well-being but also for my mental clarity and energy levels. That's where this Simple Coconut Quinoa and Lentil Curry with Lime Mango steps in – a recipe that's as vibrant and flavorful as it is quick and easy to prepare.
This recipe is a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create a truly satisfying meal. The fragrant coconut milk base, infused with warming spices, provides a comforting backdrop for the hearty lentils and fluffy quinoa. The addition of fresh, vibrant mango and lime adds a burst of sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the coconut. It's a recipe that nourishes both body and soul – the perfect antidote to the stresses of a busy day. I often make a large batch on the weekend and store it in the refrigerator for quick and healthy lunches throughout the week. The flavors actually improve after a day or two, making it even more convenient.
Beyond the Recipe: Finding Balance in a Hectic Life
For years, I struggled to balance my professional ambitions with my desire to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The pressure to excel at work often led to neglecting my own well-being, resorting to quick and convenient, but often unhealthy, meals. I learned the hard way that neglecting my health ultimately impacted my productivity and overall happiness. Finding a sustainable balance required a shift in mindset, recognizing that taking care of myself was not a luxury, but a necessity.
This Simple Coconut Quinoa and Lentil Curry with Lime Mango is more than just a recipe; it's a symbol of that journey. It represents the conscious choice to prioritize healthy eating, even within the constraints of a busy schedule. It's a recipe that allows me to nourish myself and my family without sacrificing precious time or energy. The combination of readily available ingredients, minimal prep time, and delicious results makes it the perfect weeknight dinner solution.
The curry's versatility also makes it an ideal base for customization. Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini to increase the nutritional content and add variety. Leftovers make excellent lunchbox additions. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors of this dish are guaranteed to brighten up even the most hectic day.
Beyond the Kitchen: Extending the Principles of Balance
The principles of balance that guided me in creating this recipe have extended beyond the kitchen and into other aspects of my life. I’ve learned to prioritize self-care, finding time for activities that rejuvenate and recharge me, whether it's a quiet evening with a book, a brisk walk in nature, or a few minutes of meditation. I’ve also learned the importance of delegation and asking for help when needed, acknowledging that I don't have to do everything myself.
This recipe, therefore, serves as a reminder that healthy living isn't about strict diets or drastic measures; it's about making small, sustainable changes that fit into your daily life. It's about finding balance, embracing imperfection, and nourishing yourself – body, mind, and soul – every step of the way. So, take a deep breath, embrace the deliciousness of this curry, and remember that even in the midst of a busy life, self-care is always possible.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is intentionally straightforward and uses ingredients that are readily available in most grocery stores. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their culinary experience.
Tips and Variations:
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or spices to personalize the curry to your taste. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving enhances the bright, citrusy notes. A dollop of plain Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the curry hot, accompanied by warm naan bread or brown rice. This dish is also great served as a filling for wraps or enjoyed as a standalone meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion:
This Simple Coconut Quinoa and Lentil Curry with Lime Mango is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the possibility of healthy, delicious, and convenient eating, even amidst the chaos of modern life. It’s a dish that has found a permanent place in my kitchen, and I hope it finds a home in yours, too. Embrace the simplicity, savor the flavors, and nourish yourself with intention. It's a small act of self-care that can make a big difference.
