THAI LENTIL AND LEMONGRASS CREAMY FRAGRANT STEW
Thai Lentil And Lemongrass Creamy Fragrant Stew is a fragrant and comforting one-pot meal inspired by Southeast Asian flavours. Creamy red lentils simmer in a blend of light coconut milk and water, infusing the broth with warmth and richness. A bruised lemongrass stalk adds its subtly citrusy essence, while a final squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish. This vegan stew brings balance: protein-rich lentils, gentle sweetness from coconut milk and a refreshing herbal finish. It’s ideal for light lunches, soothing evening meals or simple meal preparation. Despite its minimalist ingredient list, the dish delivers complex flavours, making it both nourishing and satisfying. Thai Lentil And Lemongrass Creamy Fragrant Stew is low in Fat, free from gluten and high in fibre, which supports digestion and overall health. Enjoy it on its own or paired with fluffy rice or steamed greens for a hearty and feel-good meal.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Thai
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Winter
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
The following ingredients are required for the preparation of Thai Lentil And Lemongrass Creamy Fragrant Stew:
- 100 grams | 3.53 ounces | ½ cup red lentils
- 62.5 milliliters | 2.11 fluid ounces | ¼ cup light coconut milk
- 250 milliliters | 8.45 fluid ounces | 1 cup water
- 15 grams | 0.53 ounces | 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
- 5 milliliters | 0.17 fluid ounces | 1 teaspoon lime juice
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 404 kilocalories
- Protein: 26.7 grams
- Carbohydrate: 63.6 grams
- Sugar: 2.5 grams
- Fibre: 31.0 grams
- Fat: 5.9 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 grams
- Sodium: 21 milligrams
- Potassium: 1,085 milligrams
- Calcium: 71 milligrams
- Iron: 7.4 milligrams
PREPARATION
- Rinse Lentils: Rinse red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear to remove starch.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add rinsed lentils, light coconut milk, water, and bruised lemongrass.
- Simmer The Stew: Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Infuse Lemongrass: Keep lemongrass simmering with the stew to infuse its citrus flavour.
- Finish And Serve: Remove lemongrass, stir in lime juice, season with salt and pepper, if desired and then ladle into a bowl and serve.
PREPARATION TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
18 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Thai Lentil And Lemongrass Creamy Fragrant Stew:
- Even Cooking: Stir occasionally during simmering to avoid the lentils sticking to the bottom.
- Boost Coconut Creaminess: Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer dish, so light coconut gives a milder taste.
- Extract Flavour: Lightly bruise the lemongrass stalk with the back of a knife to release its aromatic oils.
- Adjust Thickness: Add extra water for a soupy consistency or simmer longer to thicken naturally.
- Bright Finish: Add lime juice only just before serving to preserve its fresh citrus brightness.
VARIATIONS
- Extra Vegetables: Add diced carrot, bok choy or bell pepper during simmering for added nutrition and texture.
- Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes after cooking.
- Ginger Warmth: Add grated fresh ginger at step 2 for a warming twist.
- Spicy Edge: Include sliced chilli or a dash of chilli flakes if you prefer heat.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh coriander or Thai basil for an aromatic finish.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Allow stew to cool completely, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months, so thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the hob with a splash of water, or microwave, stirring halfway through.
- Meal Preparation Friendly: Double the recipe and portion for quick and nutritious meals. The stew tastes even better the next day as flavours develop.
