Hearty Lentils & Rice is a nutritious and satisfying dish rooted in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean culinary traditions. Combining protein-rich lentils with long-grain brown rice and caramelized onions, it's a wholesome vegetarian staple often enjoyed as a main course or side. The addition of fresh cilantro adds brightness and herbaceous flavor. Affordable, filling, and deeply comforting, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 onions (large, about 4 cups, thinly sliced)
- 1 cup dried lentils
- ½ cup long-grain brown rice
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (large )
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing – inferred)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
- Peel and thinly slice onions. Rinse lentils and brown rice under cold water. Chop cilantro.
Step 2: Sauté Onions
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and caramelized (about 20 minutes).
Step 3: Cook Lentils and Rice
- In a medium pot, combine lentils, rice, and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until both the lentils and rice are tender and water is absorbed.
Step 4: Combine and Season
- Stir the caramelized onions and chopped cilantro into the cooked lentils and rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
- Spoon into shallow bowls and garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
Tips
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for deeper flavor
- Brown the onions slowly for extra richness
- Add garlic or cumin for warmth and complexity
- Stir in extra cilantro just before serving
- Serve with lemon wedges or yogurt on the side
- Works well as a filling for wraps or bowls
- Keeps well for meal prep and reheats beautifully
- Pair with a simple cucumber or tomato salad
Nutrition
Calories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 12gFat: 2.2gSaturated Fat: 0.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.9gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.8gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 9gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 3mg
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