Jan'S Lentils
A hearty, flavorful lentil dish infused with celery, parsley, and hot sauce, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal or side that appeals to all tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, place lentils with enough water to cover plus 1 cup.
- Add raw celery and chicken bouillon cubes, then bring to a boil.
- Add hot sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Cook for 10 minutes or until lentils are firm.
- Do not overcook; add water if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding diced carrots or bell peppers along with the celery. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken bouillon with vegetable broth. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of Louisiana hot sauce. Make sure to rinse the lentils before cooking to remove any dirt or debris. Serve alongside crusty bread for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jan's Lentils as a main dish or a side. They pair wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For additional protein, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or a hearty stew. This dish also complements well with recipes like Potato Onion Cheddar Soup for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the lentils and warm them on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Stir well to maintain the right consistency, adding more water if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jan'S Lentils contains roughly 101 calories, with 8g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2055mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Rinse and drain them, and add them to the pot after bringing the celery and broth to a boil. Reduce the cooking time to just heat through, about 5 minutes, to avoid mushiness.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
To make Jan's Lentils more filling, consider adding cooked rice or quinoa to the dish. This will add fiber and protein, making it a heartier meal. You can also mix in sautéed greens like spinach or kale for added nutrients and flavor.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Jan's Lentils freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop, adding a little water if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).