Lentils
A hearty and comforting lentil dish with rich flavors, perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, featuring tender lentils and savory onions in a simple, wholesome preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the lentils and soak them overnight.
- Place the soaked lentils in a large pan and add 4 pints of hot water.
- Simmer until the lentils begin to soften, stirring from time to time.
- When the lentils are half-cooked, add the chopped onions and continue to simmer until the lentils are quite tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or a dollop of Super Yogurt towards the end of cooking. If you prefer a spicier dish, try adding cumin or smoked paprika. You can substitute lentils with other legumes like split peas if desired, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lentils as a hearty main dish or as a side to grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or incorporating them into a comforting dish like Hunters Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and warm on the stove over low heat until heated through. You can also freeze the lentils for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentils contains roughly 697 calories, with 12g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 796mg per serving (35% 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 substitute canned lentils for dried ones. However, reduce the cooking time significantly since canned lentils are already cooked. Simply rinse and add them towards the end of the cooking process to heat through.
How can I enhance the flavor of the lentils?
To enhance flavor, sauté spices such as garlic, cumin, or bay leaves in the fat before adding the lentils and water. You can also stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end for added freshness.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
To make the lentils more filling, consider adding diced vegetables like carrots or bell peppers during the simmering process. You can also stir in cooked grains like quinoa or barley for added texture and nutrition.
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).