Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups sweet potatoes, diced; 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 cans coconut milk (400ml each); 1 can diced tomatoes (400g); 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry. It combines rich, hearty flavors with the nutritional benefits of lentils and sweet potatoes. The best part? It simply cooks away while I go about my day, filling my kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome meal. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to keep this recipe in your regular rotation!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:40:13.390Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry, I was astonished by how well the flavors blended together. The sweet potatoes provide a comforting creaminess while the lentils add a satisfying texture. I found that allowing it to simmer for hours really enhances the depth of flavor, making every spoonful a delight.

One trick I discovered is to add a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking, which elevates the creaminess and ties all the flavors together beautifully. It’s a simple addition that makes a huge difference in flavor.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious balance of protein and carbohydrates
Intensely flavorful with a comforting warmth
Effortless preparation and minimum cleanup

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry lies in its wholesome ingredients. Sweet potatoes bring sweetness and a creamy texture, while lentils contribute heartiness and a substantial protein boost. When you select sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth skin to ensure they cook evenly. It’s these two primary ingredients that complement each other so well, transforming a few simple components into a truly comforting meal.

Coconut milk serves as the curry's base, providing a luxurious creaminess that balances the spices. When measuring, make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for a richer flavor, or opt for a light version if you're watching calories. The added diced tomatoes introduce acidity that brightens the dish, while spices like curry powder, cumin, and turmeric infuse each bite with warmth and depth. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.

Cooking Tips and Techniques

When prepping this recipe, it’s essential to chop your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. Aim for 1-inch pieces for the sweet potatoes; this size will help them cook thoroughly within the specified time. In my experience, unevenly sized pieces can lead to some being mushy while others remain firm, so being consistent is key. Additionally, if time permits, sautéing the onion and garlic in a pan for a few minutes before adding them to the crockpot can enhance their flavors, giving the dish extra depth right from the start.

If you’re short on time, this recipe is very forgiving! You can set your slow cooker to high and have a delicious meal ready in about 2.5 hours. Just keep an eye on the texture—lentils should be tender but not mushy. I recommend checking around the 2-hour mark to see how everything is progressing. If you find the mixture is a bit thick, don't hesitate to add a splash of additional vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a nutritious and flavorful curry:

Ingredients

2 cups sweet potatoes, diced
1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 cans coconut milk (400ml each)
1 can diced tomatoes (400g)
2 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your curry:

Prepare Ingredients

In the slow cooker, combine the diced sweet potatoes, lentils, chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.

Add Liquids and Spices

Pour in the coconut milk, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Stir well to combine.

Cook

Cover and set the slow cooker to low for 5 hours or high for 2.5 hours, until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.

Season and Serve

Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your healthy curry with rice or bread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach or bell peppers, for extra nutrition. Adjust the spice levels to your liking by adding chili flakes or fresh chilies.

Storage and Reheating

This curry makes fantastic leftovers! Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container; it can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it's too thick after sitting, you can add a bit of water or broth to loosen it up. Microwaving works, too—heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions. This dish freezes well for up to three months, so it’s a great option for meal prepping. Just make sure to label your containers with the date for easy tracking. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave's defrost setting. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize the curry based on what you have on hand! If you're out of lentils, chickpeas make a great alternative, providing similar protein content. You can also incorporate other vegetables like spinach, kale, or carrots to add nutrition and variety—just toss them in during the last hour of cooking to maintain their texture.

For serving, this curry pairs perfectly with warm naan bread or a side of steamed rice. You might also consider topping each serving with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess or a squeeze of fresh lime for a zesty contrast! Fresh cilantro not only beautifies the dish but adds a burst of flavor that complements the warmth of the spices beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, green or brown lentils can be used, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days and freezes nicely.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, using coconut milk for creaminess.

→ What can I serve this with?

This curry pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even naan bread for a hearty meal.