Irresistibly Cozy Sweet Potato Lentil Curry Recipe

Name: Irresistibly Cozy Sweet Potato Lentil Curry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp Olive Oil (Can substitute with vegetable oil); 1 medium White Onion (Can substitute with yellow or red onion); 3 cloves Garlic (Can substitute with garlic powder); 1 medium Red Chilli (Adjust to taste); 1 inch Fresh Ginger (Can substitute with ground ginger); 1 stalk Lemongrass (fresh) (Can substitute with 1 tsp of lemon zest); 4 cups Vegetable Stock (Can use water with a vegetable stock cube); 1 cup Red Lentils (Can substitute with chickpeas); 2 Tbsp Tamari (Use regular soy sauce if not gluten-free); 4 Tbsp Peanut Butter (Can substitute with almond or sunflower seed butter); 1 can Coconut Milk (tinned) (Can substitute with lighter nut milk); 1 large Red Pepper (Can substitute with any bell pepper or carrot chunks); 2 medium Sweet Potato (Can substitute with butternut squash); 2 cups Fresh or Frozen Spinach (Can substitute with kale or Swiss chard); Spices & Seasonings (Salt, cumin, paprika, cardamom, cinnamon, coriander, turmeric to taste); 2 leaves Bay Leaves (Can be omitted); 1 for garnish Lime (Can substitute with lemon); 3 stalks Spring Onions (Can substitute with chives); 1 Tbsp Sesame Seeds (Can be omitted or replaced with other seeds); 1 Tbsp Chilli Olive Oil (Regular olive oil can be used)

Published: February 10, 2026

by Clare

Why is this Sweet Potato Lentil Curry special?

Comforting Aroma: The inviting scent of creamy peanut butter and spices fills your home, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.
One-Pot Wonder: This recipe saves time and effort, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple dishes.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutrient-rich sweet potatoes and protein-loaded lentils, it’s a dish that nourishes your body.
Versatile Flavor: Perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory elements, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s the ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying.
For an extra treat, consider serving it alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan as a delightful pairing!

Sweet Potato Lentil Curry Ingredients

For the Base
• Olive Oil – Used for frying aromatics; vegetable oil is a good neutral substitute.
• White Onion – Adds sweetness and flavor; can be swapped for yellow or red onion.
• Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; if fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can work.
• Red Chilli – Provides heat; adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
• Fresh Ginger – Adds warmth and depth; ground ginger is a suitable substitute.

For the Curry
• Lemongrass (fresh) – Infuses bright citrus notes; substitute with 1 tsp of lemon zest if unavailable.
• Vegetable Stock – The liquid base for the curry; use water with a vegetable stock cube if needed.
• Red Lentils – A fantastic source of protein; chickpeas can be swapped for a different texture.
• Tamari – Gluten-free soy sauce providing umami flavor; regular soy sauce is not gluten-free.
• Peanut Butter – Adds creaminess and rich flavor; almond or sunflower seed butter can be alternatives.
• Coconut Milk (tinned) – Contributes a luxurious richness; lighter nut milk can work too.
• Red Pepper – Brings color and sweetness; any bell pepper or carrot chunks work here.
• Sweet Potato – Offers natural sweetness and hearty texture; butternut squash can serve as a good substitute.
• Fresh or Frozen Spinach – Boosts nutritional value; kale or Swiss chard can also be used.

Spices & Garnishes
• Spices & Seasonings – Including salt, cumin, paprika, cardamom, cinnamon, coriander, and turmeric for layered flavor; adjust to taste.
• Bay Leaves – Provides a subtle aroma; can be omitted if you don’t have them.
• Lime (for garnish) – Brightens the dish; lemon can be a good alternative.
• Spring Onions – Adds a fresh finishing touch; chives are a suitable substitute.
• Sesame Seeds – For garnish and crunch; can be omitted or replaced with other seeds like pumpkin.
• Chilli Olive Oil – A spicy drizzle for serving; regular olive oil works if you prefer less heat.

Immerse yourself in the delightful flavors of this Sweet Potato Lentil Curry, and enjoy the nourishing goodness it brings to your table!

How to Make Sweet Potato Lentil Curry

Heat the Oil: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped white onion and red chili, frying for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Sauté Aromatics: Stir in freshly grated ginger and diced red pepper; cook an additional 3-4 minutes until tender and vibrant.
Add Garlic & Sweet Potato: Include finely chopped garlic and sweet potato chunks; sauté until fragrant and the sweet potato starts to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
Mix the Spices: Sprinkle in the spices, lemongrass, and bay leaves, heating for a few minutes to release all those wonderful aromas.
Pour in Stock: Incorporate red lentils and vegetable stock; stir well, and bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
Create Creaminess: Lower the heat, mix in tamari, peanut butter, and salt; cook for 15 minutes until lentils are tender and everything is smooth and creamy.
Finish with Veggies: Stir in spinach and coconut milk, cooking until the spinach wilts and the curry reaches a velvety consistency; taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve & Garnish: Spoon the curry into bowls over fluffy basmati rice or warm naan; garnish with a squeeze of lime juice, sesame seeds, and fresh spring onions for that finishing touch.

Optional: Drizzle with extra chilli olive oil for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Lentil Curry

Room Temperature: Sweet Potato Lentil Curry should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat fully before serving, ensuring it’s heated through.

Freezer: You can freeze Sweet Potato Lentil Curry for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of water if it’s thickened.

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Lentil Curry

Pre-soak Lentils: Soaking red lentils can reduce cooking time, but remember to adjust the liquid ratio in your Sweet Potato Lentil Curry to avoid a soupy texture.
Taste as You Go: Spice levels can vary; taste the curry while cooking and adjust the red chili to match your heat preference.
Remove Lemongrass: Don’t forget to discard the lemongrass stalks before serving, as they are too tough to eat.
Add Spinach Last: If using frozen spinach, stir it in towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant color and nutritional value.
Store Leftovers: Keep any uneaten Sweet Potato Lentil Curry in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze it for up to 2 months for future meals.

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Lentil Curry?

Imagine savoring a warm, aromatic bowl of curry, paired with sides that enhance its delightful flavors and textures.

Fluffy Basmati Rice: This classic side absorbs the rich curry sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s simply irresistible.
Warm Naan Bread: Soft, pillowy naan is perfect for dipping, allowing you to enjoy every last bit of the creamy curry.
Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: Their crunch provides a fun textural contrast, making each bite a delightful surprise amidst the comforting curry.
Cucumber Salad: A fresh and zesty salad can perfectly cut through the curry’s richness, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
Mango Lassi: This creamy, sweet yogurt drink complements the spices beautifully, ensuring a delightful balance to your meal.
Quinoa: For a gluten-free grain alternative, quinoa adds a nutty flavor and a protein boost that pairs excellently with the curry.

Each of these pairings not only complements your lovely Sweet Potato Lentil Curry but also enhances the overall dining experience, making it a feast for the senses!

Sweet Potato Lentil Curry Variations

Feel free to explore exciting twist on the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Chickpeas: Swap red lentils for chickpeas for a protein-packed alternative that offers a lovely texture variation.
Cashew Butter: Use cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a creamy richness that adds a nutty depth to the curry.
Extra Heat: For heat lovers, increase the quantity of red chili or toss in some diced jalapeños to spice things up!
Carrots: Add diced carrots alongside the sweet potatoes for an extra layer of sweetness and a splash of vibrant color.
Fresh Herbs: Try replacing the spring onions with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a refreshing and aromatic garden flavor.
Coconut Yogurt: For added richness, replace the coconut milk with coconut yogurt; it brings a tangy twist and creamy texture.
Lentil Mix: Experiment with a combination of lentils—like brown and green— for a more textured dish that enhances nutritional value.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika in place of regular paprika to introduce a subtle smoky flavor to your delightful curry.

With these variations, your Sweet Potato Lentil Curry can be a new experience each time you make it!

Sweet Potato Lentil Curry Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best sweet potatoes for my curry?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are smooth and firm, with no dark spots or blemishes. The skin should be vibrant in color, and you should avoid any that feel soft or have started to sprout.

How should I store leftover Sweet Potato Lentil Curry?
Very! Store your delicious curry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to reheat it fully before serving—no one likes a cold meal!

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Lentil Curry?
Yes! To freeze, allow the curry to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through.

What if my lentils are too mushy after cooking?
No worries! If your lentils have become too mushy, it’s likely they were overcooked. In the future, keep an eye on them and try soaking them for about 30 minutes before cooking. This can speed up the cooking process without sacrificing texture. Additionally, using less water or broth can help maintain the perfect consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for this curry?
Absolutely! This Sweet Potato Lentil Curry is vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for various dietary needs. If you’re cooking for pets or have allergies, always check the sources of your ingredients, especially items like peanut butter and tamari, which may contain allergens.