Kids in the Kitchen - Kale & Lentil Curry

November 05, 2025

• cooking, growing greens indoors

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Kids in the Kitchen - Part 3

Kids in the Kitchen is our blog series, where in collaboration with Little Kitchen Academy, we’re sharing recipes and tips for getting kids interested in food and involved in the kitchen.

 

Kale and Lentil Curry 

This one-pot curry is cozy, colorful, and perfect for chilly days. It’s packed with flavor from curry powder, cumin, ginger, and garlic—balanced by creamy coconut milk and a bright splash of lime. Lacinato kale adds hearty texture and earthy sweetness, while brown lentils make it filling and protein-rich. 

This dish offers a great opportunity to introduce children to new ingredients and aromas, and to build confidence with stovetop cooking. 

Kale and Lentil Curry 

Prep time: 10–15 minutes 

Cook time: 30–35 minutes 

Serves: 2 

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup brown lentils 

•  ⅔ cup water 

• ⅛ tsp salt 

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil 

• 40 g yellow onion, chopped 

• 1 garlic clove, chopped 

• 1 small piece fresh ginger 

• ½ tbsp curry powder 

• ½ tsp ground cumin 

• ½ tsp salt 

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) 

• Juice of ½ lime 

• ¼ cup vegetable broth 

• ½ cup coconut milk 

• 1 tsp maple syrup 

• 3 stems Lacinato kale, chopped 

• 5 sprigs fresh cilantro, chopped 

• ½ cup cooked brown rice (for serving) 

WHAT ELSE YOU’LL NEED: 

• Small pot with lid 

• Frying pan 

• Wooden spoon 

• Cutting board and knife 

• Grater 

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the lentils 

In a small pot, combine lentils, water, and ⅛ tsp salt. 

Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the lentils are tender. 

1. Sauté the aromatics 

In a frying pan, heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil over medium heat. 

Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until it begins to soften and turn translucent. 

Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the garlic and grated ginger. Cook gently until very fragrant. 

Encourage children to notice how the aroma changes as the garlic and ginger cook. This builds awareness of cooking stages and sensory cues. 

1. Build the curry base 

Add curry powder, cumin, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir for about 1 minute, until the spices coat the vegetables and release their fragrance. 

Add the lime juice, vegetable broth, coconut milk, and maple syrup. Stir to combine. 

4. Add the greens & lentils 

Stir in the cooked lentils, chopped Lacinato kale, and chopped cilantro. 

Increase the heat slightly and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer until the kale has softened and wilted slightly, and all the flavors have come together. 

Ask children if they know why Lacinato kale is also called “Dinosaur Kale.” The bumpy texture of its dark green leaves resembles dinosaur skin!

5. Taste and serve 

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm over brown rice. 

 

Enjoy!