Lentils And Rice
A hearty, comforting dish of lentils and rice with aromatic seasonings, perfect for a nutritious, filling meal suitable for vegetarians and those seeking a wholesome option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils and place them in a pan with water.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 20 minutes on medium heat.
- While the lentils are cooking, sauté chopped onion in oil until light brown.
- Add the cooked lentils, residual water, seasonings, and uncooked rice to the pan.
- Cover and cook for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve on a platter; the dish thickens as it cools.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding diced carrots or bell peppers while sautéing the onions. If you want to enhance the flavor, try using vegetable broth instead of water. For a quicker cooking time, use canned lentils. You can also substitute brown rice for white rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lentils and rice dish warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. It pairs beautifully with Sliced Tomatoes With Three Herb Dressing or a refreshing Tabbouleh(A Middle Eastern Salad). For a complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the pan and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the dish has thickened too much, adding a bit of water will help restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentils And Rice contains roughly 1025 calories, with 49g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (100% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2356mg per serving (102% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook it and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for several days and the flavors will meld over time, making it even more delicious.
Can I use different types of lentils?
Absolutely! While green or brown lentils are recommended for this recipe, you can also use red lentils. Just be aware that red lentils cook faster and may result in a softer texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this lentils and rice dish is entirely plant-based and fits well within vegan recipes. It's nutritious and filling, making it a great option for anyone looking for hearty vegan meals.
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).