Curried Lentils

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Total cooking time: 30 minutes

Serves 4 (as a main dish, more if used as a side)

1 cup red lentils

2 cups vegetable stock

1 3/4 oz ghee

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 large green chili, seeded and finely chopped

2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons ground coriander

2 tomatoes, chopped

1/2 cup coconut milk

1. Rinse the lentils and drain well. Place the lentils, stock and turmeric in a large heavy-based pan. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes, or until just tender. Stir occasionally and check the mixture is not catching on the bottom of the pan.

2. Meanwhile, heat the ghee in a small frying pan and add the onion. Cook until soft and golden and add the garlic, chili, cumin and coriander. Cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir the onion and spices into the lentil mixture and then add the tomato. Simmer over very low heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

3. Season to taste and add the coconut milk. Stir until heated through. Serve with naan bread or rice.

I usually serve these as a side dish with lamb saagh. So good!