Jamaican Coconut Lime Lentil Bowl

Name: Jamaican Coconut Lime Lentil Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 ½ cups vegetable broth; Juice of 2 limes; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Cooked rice or quinoa; Sliced avocado; Chili flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Seasonal Food

I absolutely love this Jamaican Coconut Lime Lentil Bowl for its bold flavors and vibrant color. The combination of coconut milk, fresh lime juice, and hearty lentils creates a refreshing yet satisfying dish that transports me straight to the Caribbean. It's not just easy to prepare, but it's also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome meal option. Whether I'm enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this bowl brings a touch of sunshine to my table every time. Trust me, you’ll want to make this more often than you think!

Created by

Octavia Bellamy

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:06:36.725Z

When I first tried a similar dish at a local Caribbean restaurant, I was blown away by the layers of flavor and comforting texture. I decided to recreate my own version at home using lentils, which are not only nutritious but also filling. The trick is to let the lentils simmer gently in coconut milk while adding a burst of lime juice just before serving. This builds a wonderful creaminess that balances well with the acidity of the lime.

Each time I make this bowl, I love experimenting with toppings like avocado and fresh herbs, enhancing the experience even further. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use pantry staples, making it a budget-friendly option without sacrificing taste. I’ve even made this dish in larger batches to enjoy throughout the week, and it holds up beautifully in the fridge!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut milk blended with vibrant lime juice
Hearty lentils packed with protein and fiber
Quick to assemble and perfect for meal prep

      

Flavorful Ingredients

The star of this Jamaican Coconut Lime Lentil Bowl is undoubtedly the coconut milk. It not only adds creaminess but also infuses the dish with a tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the bright lime juice. When selecting coconut milk, look for full-fat options for a richer taste, but if you're looking for a lighter version, reduce-fat coconut milk will work too. The combination of these two ingredients creates a subtle sweetness that balances the earthiness of the lentils.

Lentils are not just a source of protein; they also have a unique ability to absorb surrounding flavors, which makes them an ideal candidate for dishes rich in seasoning. In this recipe, their texture adds a hearty component to the bowl, while their neutral flavor allows the coconut and lime to shine. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked lentils, which can significantly cut down the cooking time without compromising the final dish.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking lentils properly is key to achieving the right texture. Keep an eye on the pot as the lentils simmer. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, while undercooked lentils will remain tough. Aim for a tender bite without losing their shape, which should take about 25 minutes. If you find that the mixture is too thick towards the end, feel free to add an extra splash of vegetable broth for a more soupy consistency.

Sautéing the onion and garlic is another critical step. This process not only enhances their natural flavors but also infuses the entire dish with a savory base. Cook them until the onion is soft and translucent, ensuring they don’t brown too much. Brown bits can be delicious in some dishes, but for this recipe, a glossy, fragrant sauté adds a subtle sweetness that complements the creamy coconut and zesty lime perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious bowl.

For the Lentil Bowl

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 ½ cups vegetable broth
Juice of 2 limes
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

For Serving

Cooked rice or quinoa
Sliced avocado
Chili flakes (optional)

These ingredients will come together to create a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Instructions

Cook the Lentils

In a pot, combine the lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Sauté Aromatics

In a pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Combine and Season

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the sautéed onion and garlic, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well, allowing the flavors to meld for a couple of minutes over low heat.

Serve

Distribute the lentil mixture over bowls of cooked rice or quinoa, garnishing with fresh cilantro and slices of avocado. Add chili flakes for an extra kick if desired.

Enjoy your Jamaican Coconut Lime Lentil Bowl warm and fresh!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bowl with your favorite veggies or protein sources. Grilled shrimp or chicken would complement the flavors beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this lentil bowl over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa boosts the dish's nutritional profile. Quinoa, in particular, offers a complete protein source, making this meal very satisfying. I often like to mix in a bit of lime zest into the rice or quinoa for an extra burst of citrus flavor that ties the whole dish together. Lime-infused grains can be a delightful contrast to the creamy lentils.

If you're feeling adventurous, don't hesitate to add other toppings such as diced tomatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a drizzle of sriracha for heat. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta can also complement the dish well, providing a tasty contrast to the creamy and tropical flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storing

This dish is fantastic for meal prep since the flavors only improve as it sits. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just be sure to let the lentil mixture cool completely before adding it to containers to avoid any condensation that could turn it mushy.

To freeze, portion the lentils into serving-size containers, leaving some room for expansion as they freeze. This recipe can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth if the lentils seem dry after freezing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, you can use red lentils, but keep in mind they will cook faster and may become mushy.

→ How long does this dish keep in the fridge?

It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients.