Deliciously Easy Prawn and Lentil Curry With Quick Pickled Onions for Your Quick Weeknight Dinners

This prawn and lentil curry shows that cooking can be both simple and delicious. Lentils offer a satisfying base, while prawns add a touch of luxury to the dish. Combined with a variety of spices, this easy curry delivers a warm, comforting flavour that feels indulgent without requiring too much effort. For those new to cooking curries or searching for a quick midweek meal, this recipe suits any skill level.

Prawn and Lentil Curry - The Perfect Midweek Meal

Most of us want easy curry recipes that don’t sacrifice taste. This dish combines lentils and prawns to create a comforting meal in no time. Lentils alone are rich in protein and fibre while prawns are a fantastic source of lean protein. The pickled onions add a fresh and tangy bite that blends beautifully with the rich spicy curry

Prawn and Lentil Curry - The Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 x 400g tins of lentils

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 6 garlic cloves, finely minced

• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and finely chopped

• ¼ tsp ground turmeric

• ¼ tsp chili powder

• 1 tbsp cumin seeds

• 1 tbsp ground cumin

• 1 tbsp ground coriander

• 1 tbsp tomato purée

• 1 tsp tamarind paste

• 1 tbsp garam masala

• 1 tbsp medium roasted curry powder

• 400g can chopped tomatoes or passata

• 400ml chicken or vegetable stock

• 200g raw or cooked large prawns

• Sliced green chilies for serving

• Fresh coriander for garnish

  
  

Quick Pickled Onions

For a zesty twist, prepare quick pickled onions:

• 1 red onion, sliced into thin rings

• 2 tsp flaky sea salt

• 1 tsp sugar

• ¼ cup of cider vinegar

  
  

Method

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a shallow casserole or sauté pan. Add the finely chopped onion with a pinch of salt, and sauté for about 10 minutes until it turns golden. This step enhances the natural sweetness of the onion.

Next, incorporate the minced garlic, chopped ginger, ground turmeric, chili powder, cumin seeds, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, and curry powder. Cook for another 3 minutes until the mixture becomes sticky and fragrant.

Stir in the tomato purée and tamarind paste, followed by the chopped tomatoes. Let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until it thickens into a rich paste.

Step 2: Quick Pickled Onions

As your curry base simmers, prepare the quick pickled onions. In a jar, combine your thinly sliced red onion with flaky sea salt, sugar, and cider vinegar. Seal the lid and shake well. Allow the onions to soften in the vinegar while the curry cooks.

Step 3: Combine the Lentils and Stock

Once the sauce has thickened, drain the lentils and stir them into the mixture. Pour in 400ml of water along with the stock cube, and bring to a boil.

After boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pan, and let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes. As it simmers, you can expect a beautifully thickened sauce that permeates the lentils.

Step 4: Add the Prawns

Now for the main attraction—the prawns! Stir them into the simmering sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked and bursting with flavour. Season with salt to taste.

Step 5: Serve with Style

When ready to serve, slice up some green chilies and sprinkle them over your curry. Add a handful of fresh coriander leaves and a few slices of your pickled onions for that perfect finishing touch.

Tips for Customizing Your Curry

One of the best parts of this prawn and lentil curry is its versatility! Here are some suggestions to make it your own:

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or any other veggies you have. They’ll enhance the dish’s color, nutrients, and volume.

  
  

• Adjust the Heat: For spicier fare, increase the chili powder or add a fresh diced chili to your sauce.

  
  

• Creamy Options: If you prefer a creamier texture, a splash of coconut milk added towards the end of cooking can elevate the dish.

  
  

• Plan Ahead: This curry is fantastic for meal prep. Make a double batch, and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners. Just reheat and enjoy!