Spicy Coconut Lentil Curry Tart with Sweet Potato Crust
This Spicy Coconut Lentil Curry Tart with Sweet Potato Crust is a delightful fusion of flavors, textures, and colors that will tantalize your taste buds. Imagine a creamy coconut lentil curry nestled in a sweet and savory sweet potato crust, creating a perfect balance that transforms a typical dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also adds a burst of vibrant flair to your table, making it perfect for both family meals and gatherings.
Whether you are a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and fun to prepare. The combination of spices in the lentil curry reflects the essence of comfort food, while the sweet potato crust offers a nutritious, gluten-free alternative to traditional pastry. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process of making this scrumptious dish!
Ingredients
To make this Spicy Coconut Lentil Curry Tart with Sweet Potato Crust, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
For the Sweet Potato Crust:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1 cup almond flour (or any nut flour of your preference)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
For the Coconut Lentil Curry Filling:
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust based on your spice preference)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into cubes. Boil them in water for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Mash Sweet Potatoes: In a mixing bowl, mash the boiled sweet potatoes until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, salt, and optional cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Crust: Press the sweet potato mixture into the bottom and sides of a tart pan evenly. Make sure to create a slight ridge around the edges to hold the filling.
- Bake the Crust: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until slightly golden and firm.
Step 2: Prepare the Lentil Curry Filling
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Spices: Stir in the curry powder, turmeric powder, and chili powder, allowing the spices to toast for about 30 seconds.
- Add Lentils and Liquids: Add the rinsed lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook the Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet, cooking for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and the mixture is thickened. Stir occasionally and add more broth if necessary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Combine and Fill: Once the lentil mixture is cooked, pour it into the baked sweet potato crust. Spread it evenly to ensure an even delicious bite.
- Bake Again: Return the tart to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Customizable Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Add more chili powder for heat or omit it for a milder flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or peas, into the lentil mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe can be prepared in advance. Assemble the tart, then store it in the fridge for a day before baking.
Conclusion
The Spicy Coconut Lentil Curry Tart with Sweet Potato Crust is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to add more plant-based recipes to their diet. Whether you’re serving it for dinner with loved ones or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy the layers of spice and sweetness in this unique tart, and don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends!