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Updated October 12, 2025

Creamy Coconut and Lentil Stew with Spinach

This Creamy Coconut and Lentil Stew is a calorie-dense, hearty option that combines healthy fats and complex carbohydrates, ensuring hockey players stay fueled and hydrated during intense training sessions and travel.

Categories

Game DayCalorie DenseHearty SoupTravel Day

Focus areas

LunchDinnerSoup

Overview

This stew is designed to provide a rich source of energy through a combination of lentils, coconut milk, and spinach. The creamy texture and warm flavors make it comforting and easy to consume post-training or on the go, especially when packed in a thermos.

Ingredients

  • 200g (1 cup) red lentils, rinsed
  • 400ml (1 can) coconut milk
  • 500ml (2 cups) vegetable broth
  • 150g (5 oz) fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
  2. Stir in the ground cumin and turmeric, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the rinsed lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
  4. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
  6. For travel, allow the stew to cool before transferring to a thermos. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Macros

  • Approximate Calories: 350 per serving
  • Protein: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 18g

Coaching Tips

  • Consume this stew within 1-2 hours post-training to optimize recovery.
  • For added protein, consider mixing in some cooked chicken or tofu.
  • This stew can be made in advance and frozen for easy meal prep. Just reheat before serving.
Nutrition Playbook

Fuel every shift before it starts

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Inside each drop

Game-week fueling schedules
Pre-built daily menus with macros and timing cues tailored for double-header weekends and rest days.
20-minute prep solutions
Quick-cook recipes, grab-and-go snacks, and hydration stacks that slot into even the busiest travel days.
Implementation templates
Editable PDFs and spreadsheets to share with parents, players, and staff so everyone stays aligned.

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“Back-to-back road trip” menu including grocery checklist, smoothie rotation, and post-game recovery shakes.