No Salt Added Red Lentils

No-salt-added red lentils with cilantro on a white plate

A warm, satisfying bowl of red lentils seasoned with curry, ginger, garlic, and cayenne—no salt added. Finish with fresh cilantro for a bright, herbal touch.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ tablespoon unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup diced yellow onion
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder (salt-free)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 3 cups water
  • ½ pound dry red lentils
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions

  1. Warm an uncovered pot over medium-low heat with the olive oil and unsalted butter.
  2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, curry powder, cayenne pepper, and ginger. Toast for about 1 minute, stirring so the aromatics and spices do not burn.
  3. Add the dry lentils and water. Bring to a simmer, then cover.
  4. Simmer for about 30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
  5. Spoon onto a dish and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Red lentils in a pot with vegetables and seasoned liquid before simmering
Overhead view of red lentils cooking in a pot

Kitchen Tip

Sort through the dry lentils and remove any debris or damaged pieces before cooking. Measure out ½ pound ahead of time to make preparation easier. Check curry powder labels to ensure no salt has been added.

Finished Dish

Red lentils served next to freshly chopped cilantro
Side view of a bowl of red lentils with cilantro
Close-up of cooked red lentils with cilantro and a fork

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