Get ready to spice up your weeknight dinners with this mouthwatering Madras lentils recipe. It’s packed to the brim with flavor, and all comes together in just one pot. Inspired by the Tasty Bite lentil pouches I always pick up at Costco, this protein-rich recipe doubles as awesome meal prep.
here’s what you’ll need
The ingredients for this recipe are mostly pantry staples. Jump down to the recipe card for exact measurements, this is just an overview!
Unsalted Butter: Compared to many dishes for Madras lentils you may see online, we’ve reduced the butter, using just enough to saute our aromatics! Aromatics: Yellow onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger lay a delicious flavor base for these lentils. Tomato Paste: Gives a concentrated, umami-rich flavor. I like to freeze tomato paste in small portions, so I always have the right amount on hand! Smoked Paprika, Cumin, Ground Coriander Seed, and Cayenne Pepper: These spices collectively create the signature Madras flavor profile, offering smokiness, warmth, and a hint of citrusy zest. Vegetable Broth: This serves as the base liquid, infusing the lentils with flavor and ensuring they cook to perfection (here’s how to make your own vegetable broth!). Black Lentils: Provide a hearty, protein-rich component that’s quintessential to the dish. Kidney Beans: Offer additional texture and protein, making the dish even heartier. Half and Half: This creates a creamy, luscious texture that beautifully balances the spices. Replace it with canned coconut milk for a vegan option!
let’s make them!
Grab a pot and a spatula, and prepare to have your house smell amazing. It takes under 45 minutes (and most of that time is hands-off). Jump to the recipe card for the full printable instructions.
Meal Prep It
These Madras lentils make amazing meal prep thanks to the sturdy black lentils. This recipe makes 4 to 5 servings, which last for about 5 days in the fridge.
How does this recipe compare to Tasty Bite Madras Lentils?
I love the convenience of the Tasty Bite Madras Lentil pouches! In making this recipe, I studied the ingredients listed on the pouch as inspiration for the ingredients in this homemade version. Here’s how this recipe compares to the store-bought version:
Flavor: The flavor is very similar between the store bought and homemade version, although we found that the store bought version tasted a bit more like refried beans. Texture: The texture of the store-bought version is much more soft, while the homemade version has more bite to it. I prefer a more textured version, but to replicate the soft texture, you could blend the kidney beans with half and half before adding them to the pot.
topping ideas
Cilantro is my go-to for topping, but here are a few other ideas.
Chopped green onions A squeeze of lime juice A dollop of plain yogurt
Serve It With
Like many of our Indian-inspired recipes, these Madras lentils are great with:
Homemade Naan: It’s so pillowy and soft! Cauliflower Rice: Great for a lower-carb option. Mango Lassi: Finish your meal with a refreshing treat.
