Description
Easy Green Lentil and Halloumi Curry
This vegetarian curry brings together the delightful chewiness of halloumi and the earthy taste of green lentils, creating a hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights. Inspired by Indian flavors, this dish is versatile—you can add your favorite veggies to suit your taste. Halloumi, unlike most cheeses, doesn’t melt, providing a unique texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy curry sauce.
2 tbsp olive oil
2 onions, diced
1 green pepper, diced
1 red pepper, diced
1 Portobello mushroom, diced
225g halloumi, 1-inch pieces
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ginger, minced
1 tsp tomato paste
100g green lentils
400g tin chopped tomatoes
350ml vegetable stock
1 tsp curry powder
1 tsp garam masala
½ tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp chili flakes
¼ tsp black pepper
100g baby spinach, shredded
Directions:
1. Heat oil, fry onion (5-6 mins).
2. Add peppers, mushroom, garlic, ginger (5 mins).
3. Mix in halloumi, cook 5-6 mins.
4. Add spices, stir for 1 min.
5. Add tomato paste, tomatoes, lentils, stock. Cook 25-30 mins.
6. Serve with rice or naan.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 336
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect curry. First, prep all vegetables and cube the halloumi. In a large pot or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and fry for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent. Next, add the diced peppers, mushroom, minced garlic, and ginger. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Push the vegetables to the side of the pan. Add the halloumi cubes in a single layer and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on several sides. Now, add all the spices—curry powder, garam masala, cumin, chili flakes, and black pepper. Stir constantly for 1 minute to toast the spices and coat everything.
Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the chopped tomatoes, green lentils, and vegetable stock. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. In the final 2 minutes of cooking, stir in the shredded spinach until wilted.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty curry is best served hot. For a classic pairing, spoon it over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or with warm, buttery naan bread. To add freshness, top with a dollop of cool plain yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple cucumber salad on the side.
How-to Summary
Sauté onions, peppers, mushroom, garlic, and ginger. Brown halloumi pieces in the same pan. Toast spices briefly, then add tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, lentils, and stock. Simmer covered for 25-30 minutes until lentils are cooked. Finish by wilting spinach into the hot curry. Serve with rice or bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of lentil? Yes, but cooking times will vary. Red lentils will cook faster and create a thicker sauce, while brown lentils hold their shape similarly to green ones.
How can I make this dish vegan? Simply omit the halloumi or replace it with pan-fried extra-firm tofu or chickpeas for a protein boost.
Can I make this curry ahead of time? Absolutely. This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
My curry is too thick. What should I do? Add a splash of water or additional vegetable stock while reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Is the halloumi supposed to stay chewy? Yes. Halloumi is a brined cheese that holds its shape and develops a chewy, squeaky texture when cooked, which is a key feature of this dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan when browning the halloumi. Cook in batches if necessary to get a proper sear.
- Adding raw spices directly to liquid without toasting them first. This “blooms” their flavor.
- Undercooking the lentils. Taste test near the end; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Adding the spinach too early. Stir it in at the very end to retain its color and texture.
Conclusion
This Green Lentil and Halloumi Curry is a satisfying, flavor-packed vegetarian meal that proves simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. The combination of earthy lentils, savory halloumi, and aromatic spices is both comforting and exciting. With the detailed steps and tips provided, you’re equipped to avoid pitfalls and customize it to your taste. It’s a versatile recipe destined to become a reliable favorite in your weekly rotation.