Name: Veggies and Lentils in Peanut Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (any variety); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1/2 cup coconut milk; 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Veggies and Lentils in Peanut Sauce is a savory and satisfying dish packed with flavor, nutrition, and heartiness. With its rich, creamy peanut sauce coating tender vegetables and protein-packed lentils, this meal is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a comforting yet healthy dish with an exciting fusion of flavors. The combination of fresh vegetables, lentils, and a creamy peanut sauce will make this dish a go-to for your weekly meal prep or a weeknight dinner.

Veggies and Lentils in Peanut Sauce

Ingredients

1 cup lentils (any variety)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Begin by rinsing the lentils under cold water. In a large pot, cook the lentils according to package instructions, usually for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the diced carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini to the pan, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey (if using), ground ginger, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour this peanut sauce mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and stir to combine.
Stir in the cooked lentils, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the peanut sauce. Allow it to cook for another 5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and the flavors meld together.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you like a little more sweetness, add extra honey or maple syrup, or adjust the heat with more chili flakes.
Serve the dish warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Options: Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites. Broccoli, sweet potatoes, or spinach can all be great alternatives.
Add Protein: For extra protein, try adding tofu, tempeh, or grilled chicken.
Make it Spicy: Increase the chili flakes or add some sriracha to the sauce if you like extra heat.
Make it Vegan: Ensure the soy sauce and peanut butter are vegan-friendly, and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can add more chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or some fresh chopped jalapeños to boost the spice level.

Can I use a different nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can be used as alternatives to peanut butter.

Are lentils necessary for this recipe, or can I use something else?

Lentils add great texture and protein to the dish, but you can substitute with beans like chickpeas or black beans if preferred.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari is a good option) to keep the dish gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish in advance for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and can be made in advance. Just keep the sauce and lentils separate if you prefer, and combine them when reheating.

Can I add more veggies to the recipe?

Definitely! You can add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or kale for extra nutrients.

Can I make this recipe without coconut milk?

If you don’t have coconut milk, you can substitute with regular milk, almond milk, or vegetable broth for a lighter version.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the peanut butter is vegan-friendly.

What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa, or a side of flatbread.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers will last for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Conclusion

Veggies and Lentils in Peanut Sauce is a delightful dish that combines wholesome ingredients with an irresistible peanut sauce. It’s quick, customizable, and packed with flavors that will satisfy both your taste buds and your hunger. Whether you are preparing it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or serving it to guests, it’s a meal that’s sure to please. Enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of this vibrant dish!