Mediterranean Lentils and Rice
A hearty, flavorful one-pan meal combining lentils and basmati rice, this Easy Mediterranean dish is perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 2 cans cans lentils (15 oz / 400 g each can — drained and rinsed) Alternatively, use dried lentils, adjusting cooking time.
- 1.5 cups cooked basmati rice Or ½ cup / 100 g uncooked rice to be cooked in water or broth.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 medium onions (thinly sliced) Add ½ cup water while cooking.
- 1 tablespoon honey Substitute with sugar or maple syrup for vegan option.
- 2 cloves garlic (grated)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 0.5 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust quantity to taste.
- 0.75 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste, add black pepper.
To Serve
- 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley (or cilantro) Chopped.
- 1 large lemon For serving, optional Greek yogurt.
Instructions
Cook Onions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon of honey.
- Cook for about 10 to 13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized. Add ½ cup of water halfway through to keep them from burning.
Toast Spices
- Stir in 2 cloves of grated garlic, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon coriander, ½ teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon turmeric powder, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- Toast for about a minute until fragrant.
Add Lentils and Rice
- Add 2 cans of drained lentils, 1½ cups of cooked basmati rice, 2 tablespoons of chopped flat-leaf parsley, and ¾ teaspoon of salt, along with black pepper.
- Stir well and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice, additional chopped parsley, and a spoonful of Greek yogurt if desired.
- Serve on its own or alongside grilled chicken or lamb skewers.
Notes
Use day-old rice for a better texture. Don’t rush the onion-caramelizing step; this adds depth to the flavor. Adjust red pepper flakes according to heat preference.