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Easy 20-Minute One Pot Lentils are a healthy, nourishing, and delicious vegan meal that is easy to make in a few simple steps. Make a big batch and freeze! | aheadofthyme.com

Easy 20-Minute One Pot Lentils


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4.9 from 18 reviews

  • Author: Sam | Ahead of Thyme
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

They are easy to make in a few simple steps, and are simmered until tender with an assortment of seasoning to pack on the flavor. This vegan dish is also freezer-friendly and reheats really well. 


Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups dry brown lentils
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
  • 3 cups boiling water, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Add lentils to a large mixing bowl and sort out any debris, then rinse and drain. Pour in some boiling water on top, enough to cover the lentils, and let it sit for 10 minutes. Set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, in a large pot or 4 quart Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and turmeric. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in 1 cup of boiling water into the pot and stir together.
  3. Drain the lentils that have been soaking in water, then rinse and drain again. Stir the lentils into the pot along with the remaining 2 cups boiling water, cumin, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Turn the heat up to high and bring to a boil. Then, turn to low and simmer covered for 15 minutes.
  4. Season with more salt and pepper to taste. Serve over brown or white rice, coconut rice, or a rice pilaf with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top. You can also serve on its own with a naan bread, pita bread, biscuits or dinner rolls for dipping.

Notes

Soak the lentils: The secret to preparing the best lentils, and one that I learned from my mother, lies in the way that you prepare the lentils before cooking. Most lentil recipes call for a quick rinse and draining of dry lentils before placing into the cooking pot. But to get the best results, the key is to soak the lentils for about 10-15 minutes in hot water. This not only cleans the lentils (you will notice the dark brown coloured-water when you drain the soaked lentils), but it actually removes the gassiness from them. Meaning, they will be easier to digest and will cause less gas issues once you have at them. You could call it an old wives' tale, but it works. It actually works.

Lentils have different taste and textures: Another tip to getting the perfect lentil, is to be mindful of the type of lentil you are using. I like to cook with brown lentils because I like their earthy flavour and because they hold their shape really well after cooking. Lentils should be slightly soft or even crunchy, but of course if super mushy lentils are your thing, (which to be honest are pretty amazing), then just keep cooking them until you get the consistency that you are looking for.

How to store: These lentils reheat really well and makes for amazing leftovers. They can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze really well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How to reheat: When you are ready to eat, simply allow the lentils to thaw in the refrigerator and then reheat for a few minutes in a saucepan. The best part is that frozen lentils will taste the same way they did on first day that you made them. This is why I never cook a small batch. I always double up on the recipe so that I can freeze any extras for weeks or months to come.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Stew
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Persian