Ingredients and Weight:
- Split Black Lentils: 2 cups (320 grams)
- Mild Curry Powder: 2 tablespoons
- Cooking Oil: 1 tablespoon (e.g., canola oil)
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped (about 1 cup)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chicken or Vegetable Stock: 4 cups
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Freshly Ground Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Cream (optional): 1/4 cup for a richer dish
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 4-6 hours on low heat in a slow cooker
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty; requires patience for slow cooking)
Preparation Method Steps:
- In a large slow cooker, add the cooking oil and heat on medium until shimmering.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the split black lentils and coat with the onion-garlic mixture.
- Sprinkle the mild curry powder, salt, and freshly ground pepper over the lentils and mix well.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce is creamy.
- If desired, stir in the cream during the last hour of cooking to enrich the dish.
- Serve hot with your choice of protein and rice or bread.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving (depending on added cream)
Carbohydrates, Protein, Fiber, and other nutritional values will vary based on specific ingredients used.
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and creamy, with a mild curry flavor that Americans may enjoy.
- Split Black Lentils provide a unique texture and nutritional benefits.
- Slow-cooked, ensuring tender and flavorful lentils.
User Comments:
- "This dish was a hit with my family! The mild curry flavor was perfect for us."
- "I love how easy this dish is to make in a slow cooker. It tastes even better the next day."
- "Great dish for a cold winter night. The lentils were tender and the flavor was spot on."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to use split black lentils for this dish; they cook faster and have a better texture than regular black lentils.
- Adjust the seasoning, including salt and pepper, according to your taste preference.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the stock by half or use less water during cooking.
- This dish pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, or served with white rice or naan bread.