Fertility Fit: Curry Chick Pea & Lentils

Fertility Fit: Curry Chickpea and Lentil Stew

Nourish your body with this wholesome, fertility-boosting meal!  

Indian food may be daunting to make but it does not have to cook all day to be delicious.  I often supplement a homemade chickpea curry dish with some of the awesome Indian food Trader Joe's has in their frozen food section or in their pouches in the canned section.  This would be great to pour over rice or quinoa.  You could also add some additional spices or vegetables, I usually just use what I have at the house, for instance, I had some small red peppers that were about to go bad but my family does not love bell peppers, so I roasted them and then blended them up, they did not even know that they were there.  This is great for people who may not like the texture of certain vegetables, using the hand blender is a great way to make a sauce creamier and sneak vegetables that you may otherwise skip over. 

Ingredients:

Chickpeas - A Protein Powerhouse:
The inclusion of chickpeas brings a dose of plant-based protein, essential for hormonal balance and reproductive health. Rich in iron and folate, chickpeas provide a nutritional foundation for your fertility journey.

Small Bell Peppers - Bursting with Antioxidants:
The vibrant colors of small bell peppers signify their rich antioxidant content. These antioxidants work to combat oxidative stress, promoting a healthy environment for reproductive cells. The inclusion of vitamins A and C 

further enhances their fertility-boosting properties.

Lentils - Folate and Fiber for Optimal Fertility:
Lentils, a nutritional powerhouse, contribute folate and fiber. Folate supports cell division and DNA synthesis, while fiber aids in hormonal balance and maintains a healthy digestive system—essential elements for fertility wellness.

Garlic - Immune-Boosting Elixir with Flavor:
Beyond its flavorful contribution, garlic adds immune-boosting properties to the stew. Allicin, found in garlic, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, supporting overall health during the fertility journey.

Canned Tomatoes - Convenience with Nutrient Density:
Offering both convenience and nutritional value, canned tomatoes play a crucial role. Tomatoes provide lycopene, linked to improved male fertility

Yellow Potatoes - Energy and Vitamin B6 for Hormonal Balance:
Yellow potatoes add heartiness and provide energy along with vitamin B6. This vitamin is vital for hormonal balance, benefiting both men and women on their fertility journey.

Coconut Milk - Healthy Fats for Hormone Production:
Coconut milk introduces a creamy texture and healthy fats essential for hormone production and balance. Supporting reproductive health, coconut milk adds a delightful richness to the stew.

Chicken Broth - Nutrient-Rich Base with Collagen:
Forming the nutrient-rich base of the stew, chicken broth brings collagen and essential minerals to the table. Collagen supports connective tissue health, crucial for the development and maintenance of reproductive organs.

Basmati Rice - Complex Carbohydrates for Sustained Energy:
Served as a base, basmati rice contributes complex carbohydrates for sustained energy—a key component for maintaining vitality during the fertility journey.

Seasoning: Curry Powder, Turmeric, Cracker Pepper, Cayenne Pepper, Chili Powder

Beyond enhancing flavor, the choice of seasonings adds a nutritional dimension. Curry powder and turmeric bring anti-inflammatory properties, while cayenne pepper and chili powder may contribute to improved blood circulation—supporting reproductive health.

Cooking Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F. Drizzle small bell peppers with olive oil and roast for about 30 minutes, ensuring a delectable char on the outside.
• Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté onions, and add garlic. Incorporate the roasted bell peppers and canned tomatoes, using a hand blender to create a smooth mixture.
• Add coconut milk and chicken broth, then introduce lentils, chickpeas, and potatoes. Season to your liking, with an extra dash of curry and turmeric if you're like us!
• Allow the stew to simmer on low for approximately 45 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken to perfection.
• Serve this fertility-boosting delight over rice or quinoa, savoring every spoonful of its nourishing goodness.

This symphony of flavors and nutrients are crafted to support your fertility journey. As you relish this culinary creation, savor the knowledge that each ingredient contributes not only to the delightful taste but also to the well-being of your body on this beautiful path to parenthood. Freeze it for future indulgence!