Lentils & Rice Pilaf

This Lentils & Rice Pilaf is a comforting, nutrient-dense dish that brings together the earthy richness of lentils with the neutral fluffiness of white rice. Simmered in savory vegetable stock with fresh thyme, onions, and tomatoes, this one-pot meal develops deep, aromatic flavors without requiring complex techniques. The texture is satisfyingly varied, with tender lentils mingling with distinct grains of rice. It serves as a perfect vegan main course for weeknight dinners or as a wholesome side dish for roasted vegetables. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this recipe offers a healthy, hearty option that appeals to the whole family.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Stewing

Cuisine: Global

Courses: Side Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 2

Calories: 94.1

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

This Lentils & Rice Pilaf is a comforting, nutrient-dense dish that brings together the earthy richness of lentils with the neutral fluffiness of white rice. Simmered in savory vegetable stock with fresh thyme, onions, and tomatoes, this one-pot meal develops deep, aromatic flavors without requiring complex techniques. The texture is satisfyingly varied, with tender lentils mingling with distinct grains of rice. It serves as a perfect vegan main course for weeknight dinners or as a wholesome side dish for roasted vegetables. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this recipe offers a healthy, hearty option that appeals to the whole family.

Ingredients

2 cup Low-salt vegetable stock
1 cup Water
1/2 cup Long grain white rice
1/2 cup Lentils
1 md Onion -- sliced
2 md Tomatoes -- diced
1 teaspoon Dried thyme

Directions

1
Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and drain.
2
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of vegetable stock and 1 cup of water.
3
Bring the liquid to a boil over high heat.
4
Add the rinsed lentils to the boiling liquid.
5
Cover the saucepan and cook for 5 minutes.
6
Rinse the rice under cold water until water runs clear, then drain.
7
Add the rice, sliced onion, diced tomatoes, and dried thyme to the pot with the lentils.
8
Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
9
Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rice and lentils are tender and liquid is absorbed.
10
Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
11
Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2

Amount Per Serving
Calories 94.1kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.4g1%
Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 468004.7mg19501%
Total Carbohydrate 19.0g7%
Dietary Fiber 3.7g15%
Sugars 2.9g
Protein 4.3g9%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Ensure the liquid is at a rolling boil before adding the lentils to ensure they cook evenly.

Do not stir excessively during the simmering process to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.

For a heartier texture, you can substitute brown rice, but increase the simmer time by approximately 10-15 minutes and add an extra 1/2 cup of liquid.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: lentils, rice, pilaf, vegan, one-pot, healthy, dinner, thyme, onion, tomatoes, vegetarian, stock, simmered, comfort-food, plant-based, easy, weeknight, meal-prep

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/lentils-rice-pilaf/