Family-Friendly Mild Lentil Curry with Rice

If you’re looking for a comforting, budget-friendly and wholesome dinner, this mild lentil curry with rice ticks every box. It’s packed with protein and fibre, made with simple pantry staples, and is completely meat-free – perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone wanting a nourishing meatless meal.

What sets this lentil curry apart is its gentle flavour. There’s no overwhelming heat, just the warming aroma of curry spices like turmeric, cumin and coriander blended into a creamy tomato and coconut base. It’s ideal for kids, fussy eaters, or those new to curries who prefer milder dishes.

Lentils cook quickly and absorb flavour beautifully, making them the perfect ingredient for a hearty, satisfying curry. Paired with fluffy rice and perhaps a spoon of yoghurt or fresh coriander on top, this meal feels as good as it tastes.

You can also customise it by adding seasonal veg like spinach, carrots, or potatoes, and it freezes well too – making it great for batch cooking.

Ready to serve up a warm bowl of goodness? Let’s make this simple and satisfying lentil curry with rice.

Ingredients For Mild Lentil Curry

For the lentil curry:

• 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon mild curry powder
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• 1½ cups vegetable stock or water
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Juice of half a lemon
• Optional: 1 cup baby spinach or chopped fresh coriander

For the rice:

• 1½ cups basmati rice
• 3 cups water
• ½ teaspoon salt

Directions To Make Mild Lentil Curry

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric and curry powder. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in the chopped tomatoes, coconut milk and vegetable stock. Add the rinsed lentils and mix well.
6. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Season with salt, pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir in spinach or fresh coriander if using.
8. Meanwhile, cook the rice: rinse under cold water, then add to a pot with water and salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 12–15 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork before serving.
9. Serve the curry hot over rice with optional yoghurt or naan on the side.

How to Prepare Mild Lentil Curry

Start by rinsing your lentils to remove any grit and reduce starch. Chop your onion finely and sauté it in oil until soft – this builds the curry’s base. Add garlic, ginger and spices and let them bloom in the heat for rich flavour.

The lentils cook in a blend of chopped tomatoes, coconut milk and stock. Stir regularly as they simmer, and add more liquid if needed. They should be soft but not mushy when done. A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens everything.

While the curry cooks, rinse your rice to prevent it becoming sticky. Simmer until tender, then fluff with a fork.

Optional additions like spinach or chopped veg can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Servings

Serves 4

FAQs

Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red?

Yes, but they take longer to cook (around 35–40 minutes) and won’t break down as much as red lentils, which give the curry a creamier texture.

Can I make this curry spicier?

Definitely! Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of chilli powder or fresh chopped chillies if you like a bit more heat.

Is this curry suitable for babies or toddlers?

Yes, it’s mild and nutritious. Just be mindful of salt and skip any added heat for younger children.

Can I freeze this lentil curry?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the hob with a splash of water or stock.

What else can I serve with lentil curry besides rice?

Try it with naan bread, roti, quinoa, couscous or even baked potatoes for a change.

Conclusion

This mild lentil curry with rice is everything a comforting meal should be: hearty, wholesome, and full of flavour without being too spicy. It’s a fantastic recipe for meat-free Mondays, meal prep, or feeding a family on a budget.

The combination of soft red lentils, creamy coconut milk, and gentle spices makes it satisfying and delicious, even for those who claim not to like lentils. It’s easy to make, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable – you can bulk it out with veg, or spice it up if you’re feeling bold.

Plus, the leftovers are even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

So next time you’re after a feel-good dinner that’s warming, easy and sure to please, give this mild lentil curry a go. Serve it over steaming rice, topped with fresh herbs or yoghurt, and enjoy the comfort of a homemade plant-based classic.