The Lentils & Rice Dish I could eat EVERY DAY

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to prepare a delicious lentils and rice dish that is budget-friendly and packed with flavor. This recipe from Rainbow Plant Life is not only easy to follow but also provides a satisfying meal that you can enjoy every day. Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful dish!

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

1. Select your lentils: Use green or brown lentils for this recipe.
2. Rinse the lentils: Thoroughly rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Cook the lentils:
   • In a pot, add the rinsed lentils and enough water to cover them by about an inch.
   • Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
   • Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
4. Drain and set aside: Once cooked, drain any excess water and keep the lentils warm.

Step 2: Prep the Flavor and Rice

1. Prepare the rice:
   • Rinse your rice (white or brown) under cold water to remove excess starch.
   • Cook according to package instructions.
2. Sauté aromatics:
   • Heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of oil.
   • Add chopped onions, garlic, and any other aromatics you prefer (like ginger or spices).
   • Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
3. Combine lentils and aromatics:
   • Add the cooked lentils to the pan with the sautéed aromatics.
   • Stir to combine and allow the flavors to meld for a couple of minutes.

Step 3: Make the Yogurt Sauce

1. Gather ingredients:
   • Use vegan yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley).
2. Mix the sauce:
   • In a bowl, combine:
     • 1 cup of vegan yogurt
     • Juice of half a lemon
     • Chopped herbs
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir well: Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 4: Crisp Up the Lentils

1. Heat a pan: Use a non-stick or cast iron pan for better results.
2. Add cooked lentils: Spread the lentils evenly in the pan.
3. Crisp them up:
   • Cook on medium heat, allowing the lentils to brown slightly.
   • Stir occasionally to avoid burning, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until crispy.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Serve the rice: Place a portion of rice on a plate.
2. Top with lentils: Add a generous helping of the crispy lentils on top of the rice.
3. Drizzle the yogurt sauce: Finish off by drizzling the yogurt sauce over the lentils and rice.
4. Garnish: Consider adding extra herbs or spices for added flavor.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've created a delicious lentils and rice dish that is both nutritious and affordable. This meal can be enjoyed as is or paired with your favorite vegetables or sides. Feel free to experiment with the flavors and enjoy the versatility of this recipe. Happy cooking!