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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy

I absolutely love this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry! It's packed with nutrients and flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just toss in the ingredients, set the crockpot, and let it do the work for you. The combination of sweet potatoes and lentils creates a creamy texture, while the spices add a warm depth. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup. It doesn't get much better than this!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:43:14.083Z

When I first made this recipe, I was amazed by how rich and comforting it turned out. The sweet potatoes lend a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the earthy lentils. I experimented with different spices and found that a simple mix of cumin and turmeric brings out the warm flavors without overwhelming the dish. I also love that it fills my kitchen with a delightful aroma as it cooks!

The best part is that you can customize this curry according to what you have on hand. Whether you add spinach, bell peppers, or even chickpeas, each variation brings something special. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the added ingredients, and you’ll have a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and delicious!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutritious and satisfying combination of lentils and sweet potatoes
Hands-off cooking in the crockpot—just set it and forget it!
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables

Understanding the Ingredients

The sweet potatoes in this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentil Curry not only bring natural sweetness but also a high dose of vitamins A and C, making them a nutritional powerhouse. As they cook, they break down and create a silky texture, which complements the tender lentils beautifully. For a variation, you can experiment with different types of potatoes or even parsnips, but keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Lentils are the backbone of this dish, providing protein, fiber, and a host of essential nutrients. The green or brown lentils in this recipe hold their shape well, adding a nice texture to the curry. If you're in a pinch, red lentils can be used, but they tend to break down more and create a mushier consistency. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as red lentils usually cook faster.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

When preparing this curry, layering your ingredients thoughtfully matters. Start with the heartier ingredients like sweet potatoes and lentils at the bottom of the crockpot to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the spices and liquids. I like to create a little ‘well’ in the center for the liquid to promote even cooking. This technique helps prevent scorching at the bottom and ensures everything is tender by the end of the cooking time.

If you're considering adjusting the heat level, feel free to add diced chili peppers or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the other spices. This recipe's gentle spice profile allows for customization according to your personal taste. Just remember that heat tends to intensify as it cooks, so start with a small amount and adjust gradually during the cooking process.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large crockpot, add the diced sweet potatoes, rinsed lentils, diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.

Combine Ingredients

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

Cook the Curry

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve

Once cooked, stir the curry and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of chili powder or some diced jalapeños to the mix before cooking. Also, you can serve this curry over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This curry is incredibly versatile and stores well. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. If you want to freeze it for later use, divide it into portions and freeze for up to three months. Just be sure to allow it to cool before placing it in the freezer to maintain its texture and flavor.

Reheating is simple: you can either thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop over low heat or microwave it in shorter intervals. If it seems too thick when reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk to return it to the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This curry can stand alone as a hearty vegan meal, but there are also many delicious ways to elevate your serving experience. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or basmati rice to add additional texture and nutrients. The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs particularly well with the creamy curry, making each bite even more satisfying.

For a refreshing contrast, pair the curry with a side salad featuring greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette. This will balance out the richness of the dish. I also enjoy adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts for additional creaminess and crunch, enhancing both presentation and mouthfeel.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use frozen sweet potatoes. Just add them directly to the crockpot without thawing.

→ How long does the curry last in the refrigerator?

This curry will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken or turkey for added protein. Just stir it in during the last hour of cooking.

→ Is this curry gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive individuals.