Ma'S Lentils And Rice
Ma's Lentils and Rice offers hearty, flavorful comfort with tender lentils, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, perfect for nourishing, wholesome meals suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place uncooked lentils in a clean pot, cover with water 1 1/2 to 2 inches above the beans.
- Let soak for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours.
- Drain lentils and return to the pot; fill with water to the same level as before.
- Bring water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours with the cover on.
- Add chopped celery, carrot, onion, tomato, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper 30 minutes before the lentils are done cooking.
- Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep the beans covered.
- When lentils are cooked, mix in the cooked rice all at once or in individual servings.
- Optionally, add a dash of olive oil to each serving and mix.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the lentils. If you're short on time, canned lentils can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also substitute the vegetables with others you have on hand, like bell peppers or zucchini, to enhance the dish. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ma'S Lentils and Rice warm, optionally topped with a drizzle of olive oil for richness. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Broccoli, Carrot And Snow Pea Slaw for a refreshing crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside stuffed grape leaves or a light Mediterranean salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the lentils and rice mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. This dish also freezes well; portion it out and freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ma'S Lentils And Rice contains roughly 2373 calories, with 8g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 246g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (81% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 789mg per serving (34% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors meld together beautifully after a day in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving. If you plan to make it in advance, consider undercooking the lentils slightly, as they will continue to absorb moisture while stored.
What type of lentils should I use?
For this recipe, brown or green lentils are recommended as they hold their shape well during cooking. Red lentils will cook faster and become mushy, which may not be ideal for this dish. If you prefer a different variety, just adjust cooking times as needed based on the type used.
Can I add more spices to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin or coriander for added depth of flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the dish. Just keep in mind that spices can vary in intensity, so start with small amounts and adjust to taste.
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).