Coconut Cauliflower & Red Lentil Kootu
Inspired by Tamil-style kootu, this cozy red lentil curry pairs cool-season cauliflower with coconut milk, warming ginger, and a fragrant cumin–black pepper finish.
- Total time: 45 min
- Servings: 2 servings
- Estimated total cost: $12
- Calories per serving: 580 cal
- Stovetop
Ingredients
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Organic red lentils3/4 cup dry (about 5 oz) $4.59
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Cauliflower1 small head (about 1 lb after trimming) $6.99
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Yellow onion1 small (about 4 oz) $9.25
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Garlic2 cloves $1.75
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Frozen baby ginger1 tablespoon finely grated $15.99
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Coconut milk1/2 of a 13.5-oz can $2.29
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Canola oil1 tablespoon $5.99
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Ground turmeric1/2 teaspoon $2.89
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Ground cumin1 teaspoon $3.49
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Ground black pepper1/4 teaspoon $3.49
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Red pepper flakes1/4 teaspoon $2.89
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Extra-fine sea salt1 1/4 teaspoons, divided $2.52
Instructions
Swipe a step aside or click its number when it’s done.
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Rinse 3/4 cup dry red lentils and drain. Trim 1 small head cauliflower to yield about 1 lb, then cut into bite-size florets and thinly slice the tender stems.
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Finely dice 1 small yellow onion (about 4 oz), mince 2 garlic cloves, and finely grate 1 tablespoon frozen baby ginger. Stir the coconut milk in its can until evenly combined, then measure out half of the 13.5-oz can.
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Combine the rinsed lentils with 2 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric, and 1/4 teaspoon extra-fine sea salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer and cook partially covered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Stir the prepared cauliflower and 1 teaspoon extra-fine sea salt into the lentils. Cover and simmer gently for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and the lentils have mostly broken down. If the mixture starts sticking, add water 1/4 cup at a time.
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While the cauliflower cooks, heat 1 tablespoon canola oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the prepared onion and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring, until softened and lightly golden.
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Add the following to the onion:
- The prepared minced garlic from 2 cloves
- The prepared 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Cook, stirring, for 45–60 seconds until fragrant, then remove the skillet from the heat.
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Stir the measured coconut milk and the spiced onion mixture into the tender cauliflower and lentils. Simmer uncovered for 4–5 minutes, stirring, until creamy and spoonable; add 2–4 tablespoons water if needed to loosen.
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Divide the curry between two shallow bowls, arranging some cauliflower florets on top, and serve hot.
Want more detail? See the temperature guide.
Drink pairing: An off-dry Riesling balances the ginger and pepper while complementing the creamy coconut sauce.