Description
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender vegetables and protein-rich lentils in a creamy, savory peanut sauce. Perfect for a comforting vegan meal that’s easy to customize and great for meal prep.
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)
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a large pot, cook them according to package instructions (about 20–25 minutes), until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add diced carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey or maple syrup (if using), ground ginger, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the peanut sauce into the skillet with the vegetables and stir to combine.
- Stir in the cooked lentils and let simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more chili flakes or sweetener if desired.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro.
Notes
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
- Swap in other veggies like broccoli, spinach, or sweet potatoes as desired.
- To make it spicier, add more chili flakes or sriracha.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Add tofu, tempeh, or grilled chicken for additional protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg