Rice With Lentils
A comforting dish of rice and lentils with aromatic spices, perfect for a hearty, nutritious meal suited for vegetarians and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in olive oil until browned.
- Cook lentils in water with salt and garlic until tender.
- Add browned onion, rice, allspice, and olive oil to the lentils.
- Cover the pan and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the mixture is creamy and rice is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use green or brown lentils as they hold their shape better than red lentils. If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute with canola or coconut oil. Adding a bay leaf while cooking the lentils can enhance the flavor. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. This dish pairs well with Mediterranean recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rice with lentils warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness. This dish is delicious on its own but can be complemented with a side of steamed vegetables like Green Beans Provencale or a light salad. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu for protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the pan to prevent drying out, cover, and warm over low heat until heated through. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice With Lentils contains roughly 1405 calories, with 23g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 in advance?
Yes, this dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to reheat it gently to maintain the rice and lentil texture.
What types of rice can I use?
You can use any long-grain rice for this recipe, such as basmati or jasmine. If you prefer a healthier option, brown rice works well but may require additional cooking time. Adjust the water accordingly if using a different type of rice.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This rice with lentils recipe is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. It’s a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a wholesome option for those following vegan recipes.
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).