Green Lentil, Yam, Mushroom, and Green Bean Curry

Yield: 4-6 servings

1 cup green lentils
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 tbsp cumin seeds
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 knob ginger, grated
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp ground fenugreek
1/2 tsp cayenne
salt and pepper
2 yams, peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tbsp chickpea flour
2 cups water
2 cups mushroom broth
1 cup whipping cream
8 crimini mushrooms, quartered
1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces

1. In a medium pot, bring lentils to a boil in 4 cups of water. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until lentils are just tender. Drain, rinse in cold water to stop cooking process, and set aside.
2. Meanwhile, in a large pot, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow to sizzle for 10 to 15 seconds.
3. Add onions and saute until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, ginger, and spices. Saute for 1 minute.
5. Add the yams and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes. This is to coat the yams in oil and prevent them from becoming too mushy in the curry.
6. In a medium bowl, combine the chickpea flour and water. Whisk well. Add this mixture to the pot along with the mushroom broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Yams should be nearly soft but still slightly undercooked.
7. Add cream, mushrooms, green beans, and asparagus. Continue to cook for 5 to 10 minutes until all vegetables are just cooked.
8. Add cooked lentils to the pot and stir to combine.


Vij's Indian