📖 Instructions

1. First things first, let's make the curry sauce. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add one finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Don't burn it!
2. Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and a half teaspoon of turmeric. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step is crucial for building flavor!
3. Pour in one can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes and one cup of vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it gently bubble away for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
4. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add one cup of red lentils and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are very tender and have broken down slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Once the lentils are cooked, use a potato masher or fork to gently mash them until they reach your desired consistency. Some people like them chunky, while others prefer a smoother texture. It's totally up to you!
6. Now, it's time to blend the curry sauce! Use a blender or food processor to completely puree the sauce until nice and smooth. Add a splash more broth if it's too thick.
7. Now to assemble the sliders! In a mixing bowl, gently combine the mashed lentils with the curry sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
8. Warm the slider buns according to the package instructions. Spoon the lentil mixture onto the bottom half of each bun, and top with your favorite garnishes (like fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt). Enjoy your wonderful creations!
9. Optional: If you're feeling fancy, you can pan-fry the lentil mixture in a skillet for a few minutes until lightly browned for added texture and a deeper flavor profile. Don't overcook it though! I've made that mistake once or twice!