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Easy • Vegetarian

Easy Lentil and Rice Pilaf

A flavorful and satisfying vegetarian pilaf combining lentils, rice, and aromatic spices in one pot.

Prep
10 min
Cook
25 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Easy Lentil and Rice Pilaf

Meet your new favorite hearty side or light main! This Easy Lentil and Rice Pilaf is incredibly simple to make, yet bursting with flavor. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s naturally vegetarian, budget-friendly, and perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed well
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed well
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.

  3. Step 3

    Add rinsed lentils and rice to the pot. Stir to coat them with the spices and onion.

  4. Step 4

    Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the lentils and rice are tender. Do not lift the lid during cooking.

  5. Step 5

    Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Tips

  • For a complete meal, serve with a side of plain yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon.
  • You can add chopped bell peppers or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for more vegetables.
  • If using red lentils, reduce the cooking time slightly as they cook faster.

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