Meatless Monday Indian-style

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Happy Meatless Monday!

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Have you ever had a cuisine that you loved, but that you didn’t dare try making yourself, for fear of royally screwing up? That’s me with Indian food. I love it, but find all the spices and various daals intimidating. So until very recently I only indulged in my favorite curries on the rare occasion we’d eat out.

Then one day I found myself with an over-abundance of acorn squash and an extra head of cauliflower. I knew they’d make an awesome curry, paired with lentils. So I decided to get a little daring. And I’m so glad I did! Indian food isn’t intimidating at all! It’s fun and delicious!

I know purists say you shouldn’t use curry powder, but rather the individual spices, and grind them yourself. But I’m not a purist. Not yet, anyway. I’m just a busy mom wife student that wants to feed my family healthy, nutritious food that tastes amazing! Mission accomplished.

Cauliflower and Squash Curry

Ingredients

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon crushed ginger
  • 1 small-medium acorn squash, peeled and cubed*
  • 2 cups cauliflower (or broccoli, if you prefer)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 cup dried lentils
  • 3-4 cups vegetable broth
  • *Use whatever squash floats your boat!

Instructions

  1. First, cook a big batch of brown rice. You don’t need directions, you know what to do 🙂
  2. Meanwhile, in a large pan, sautée the chopped onion and garlic in a little vegetable broth, about 4 minutes.
  3. Add ginger, squash, and your vegetable, sautée another 4 minutes, adding broth as necessary.
  4. Add your spice mix to the pan and combine well. Add tomato paste, remaining broth, and lentils. Cook 20-25 minutes, until broth is absorbed and lentils are soft.
  5. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve over hot rice. For the grown up palates in our home, we add some crushed red pepper flakes.

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Indian food is a great choice for meat-free days! I hope you’ll give it a try, and break out of your comfort zone in the kitchen, too!

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