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Easy • Vegetarian

Savory Lentil and Rice Pilaf

A comforting vegetarian pilaf packed with earthy lentils, fragrant spices, and fluffy rice, perfect as a side or light main.

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

This lentil and rice pilaf is a simple, satisfying dish that's incredibly versatile. It's packed with hearty lentils, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice, making it a complete meal on its own or a fantastic side dish. It's proof that wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious and comforting for any night of the week.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

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

Preparation

  1. Step 1

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

  2. Step 2

    Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

  3. Step 3

    Add the rinsed lentils and rinsed rice to the pot, stirring to coat them with the spices and onion mixture.

  4. Step 4

    Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and rice are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

  5. Step 5

    Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the steam to finish cooking the grains and makes them fluffier.

  6. Step 6

    Uncover, fluff the pilaf with a fork, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Tips

  • Rinsing lentils and rice thoroughly helps remove excess starch, preventing gumminess.
  • For a complete meal, serve alongside a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a fried egg.
  • Add diced carrots or bell peppers with the onion for extra veggies and color.

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