This Microwave Lentil Curry is a simple, protein-packed, and flavorful dish made with pantry staples. It’s perfect for quick lunches, solo dinners, or meal prep without turning on the stove!
Prep Time: 2 mins
Cook Time: 8 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Servings: 2
🌟 Why You’ll Love It:
- 100% microwave-made
- Vegan, gluten-free, and budget-friendly
- One bowl = easy cleanup
- Customizable with veggies, spice level, or creaminess
- Meal-prep and dorm-friendly
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons red lentils, rinsed
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon diced onion
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Pinch of turmeric powder
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Equipment:
- Microwave-safe mug (at least 12 oz)
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
- In your microwave-safe mug, add the rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, diced onion, curry powder, ground cumin, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 2: Microwave
- Place the mug in the microwave and cook on high power for 3 minutes. Carefully remove the mug (it will be hot!) and stir the contents.
Step 3: Continue Microwaving
- Return the mug to the microwave and cook on high power for another 1-2 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your microwave.
Step 4: Rest and Garnish
- Let the curry stand for 1 minute in the microwave (with the door closed) to allow it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Serve
- Carefully remove the mug from the microwave. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
✔ No soaking needed – Red lentils cook fast!
✔ Prevent spills – Use a large, deep bowl (lentils bubble up).
✔ Extra flavor – Stir in ½ tsp mustard seeds before microwaving.
🍽 Serving Ideas
- With rice: Instant basmati or quinoa.
- As a soup: Thin with hot water and lemon juice.
- With bread: Whole-wheat roti or naan.
📊 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: ~180 | Protein: 12g | Fiber: 8g | Carbs: 30g | Fat: 1g
🌱 Variations
- Spinach curry: Stir in ½ cup baby spinach after cooking.
- Tomato-free: Use 2 tbsp lemon juice instead.
- Thai twist: Add 1 tsp red curry paste + lime zest.
Enjoy your quick and delicious microwave mug lentil curry!
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