Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry on busy weeknights when I want a nourishing meal without the fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the sweet potatoes to become tender while the lentils soak up all the rich spices. It’s perfect for meal prep, packed with protein and fiber, and comes together with minimal effort. I know you’ll enjoy the delicious flavors and the comforting warmth each bite brings, especially on chilly days.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:01:16.334Z

When I first made this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry, I was amazed at how effortlessly it came together. The combination of sweet potatoes and lentils offers a nutritious foundation, and the spices truly elevate the dish. I recommend using fresh ginger, which adds a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.

One of my favorite tricks is to add coconut milk near the end of the cooking time. It gives the curry a creamy consistency that feels indulgent without being heavy. Trust me, this method makes a world of difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and hearty, perfect for plant-based diets
Amazing depth of flavor from spices that warm you from the inside out
Easy, one-pot meal that’s great for leftovers or meal prep

      

The Role of Lentils and Sweet Potatoes

Lentils are the star ingredient in this curry, providing a rich source of protein and fiber that makes the dish both hearty and satisfying. They also help to thicken the curry as they cook, creating a creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully. Just remember to rinse the lentils thoroughly before adding them to the crockpot to remove any dust or debris, ensuring a clean flavor in your dish.

Sweet potatoes not only add natural sweetness but also a vibrant color and a boost of vitamins A and C. When diced appropriately, they cook evenly and absorb the spices’ flavors wonderfully. Aim for uniform pieces around 1-inch in size for consistent cooking, and consider using a sharp knife for easier handling. The starches in sweet potatoes break down during cooking, resulting in a silky, comforting finish.

Tips for Perfecting Your Curry

One of the great advantages of using a slow cooker is the ability to develop deep flavors over time. If you're in a hurry, I recommend cooking on high for about 4 hours instead of the low setting, but for the best results, let it simmer on low for the full 6 to 8 hours. You'll know it's done when the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the lentils are soft but not mushy.

Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end of cooking; you may want to add a pinch more salt or an extra dash of turmeric for a more vibrant color. If you like heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes at the beginning for a gentle warmth that perfectly sets off the sweetness of the potatoes.

Ingredients

Gather these wholesome ingredients for a delightful curry that’s easy to prepare!

For the Curry

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh flavors of this curry!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious curry!

Prepare the Ingredients

In your crockpot, combine the diced sweet potatoes, rinsed lentils, chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.

Add the Liquids and Spices

Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk, then stir in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Curry

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours, until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Your healthy meal is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference or add a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This curry is perfect for meal prep. Once cooled, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great option for busy weeknights. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or additional coconut milk to maintain the creamy texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the curry in portion-sized containers. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently on the stove while stirring occasionally until heated through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This curry is delicious served over white or brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice if you're seeking a low-carb option. Adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of lime juice just before serving can provide an appealing tang that balances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Fresh cilantro as a garnish not only adds flavor but also a burst of color to your plate.

Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables such as spinach or kale, which can be stirred in during the last hour of cooking for an added nutritional boost. If you prefer a creamier curry, increase the coconut milk or blend a portion of the curry before serving to create a luscious base that envelops each ingredient beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Green and brown lentils maintain their shape better than red lentils.

→ Can I make this curry vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly, as it uses coconut milk instead of dairy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with the curry?

Try serving it with rice, quinoa, or naan bread for a complete meal.