John Whaite

The spiciness of red curry paste and the sweetness of sweet potatoes and heartiness of lentils and the tanginess of lime in a single beautiful bowl of deliciousness.

Don't let the name of this Malaysian classic terrify you. Whether you love sweat-inducing, throat-tickling, gasping-for-water heat or prefer something milder, you'll find what you want here, tailoring the chiles to whatever your fancy.

Calling all pesto lovers! This variation on the classic is unconventionally unique and every bit as much a keeper as the familiar rendition with pricey pine nuts.