Garlicky Lentil Rice

Easy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice That Warms Your Soul

Warm, hearty meals have a magical ability to make us feel at home, and there’s nothing quite like an easy one-pan garlicky lentil rice to nourish both body and spirit. This delightful dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup. Packed with protein-rich lentils and fluffy rice, it’s an easy recipe that warms the soul with every bite.

Why Make This Recipe

There are numerous reasons to consider making this one-pan garlicky lentil rice. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare — just throw everything into one pan and let it simmer. This not only saves time but also minimizes the hassle of washing multiple pots and pans.

Moreover, this dish is especially nutritious, combining the high-fiber benefits of lentils with the carbohydrates of rice, making it a well-balanced and satisfying meal. It’s also quite versatile; simple ingredients come together to create a vibrant flavor that can be customized according to your preferences. In a world where meals are often chaotic and fast-paced, this recipe stands as a reminder that wholesome food can be both simple and nourishing.

How to Make Easy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice

Let’s dive right in! Making garlicky lentil rice is straightforward and enjoyable, making it the perfect meal for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Brown or Green Lentils (pick lentils that hold their shape well)
• 1 cup Long-Grain Rice (use basmati or jasmine for fluffy grains)
• 4 cloves Garlic (fresh and finely minced)
• 1 small Onion (chopped small)
• 3 cups Vegetable Broth (or water but broth is best)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for sautéing)
• 1 teaspoon Cumin (spice mix)
• 1 teaspoon Paprika (spice mix)
• ½ teaspoon Turmeric (spice mix)
• to taste Salt (season generously)
• to taste Black Pepper (season generously)
• to taste Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (chopped)
• to taste Lemon Wedges (for squeezing)
• to taste Red Chili Flakes (for a bit of heat)

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the lentils and rice, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.

3. Spice It Up: Add the cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper, mixing everything well to ensure the spices evenly coat the lentils and rice.

4. Add Liquid: Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.

5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and rice are cooked and have absorbed most of the liquid.

6. Fluff and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Fluff the lentil rice with a fork and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro and squeezed lemon juice, with a sprinkle of red chili flakes for a kick.

Pro Tips for Success with Easy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice

1. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and spices for the best flavor profile. Old spices can lose their potency over time.

2. Lentil Choice: For this recipe, select lentils that maintain their shape well during cooking, like brown or green lentils. Red lentils, although delicious, tend to become mushy.

3. Liquid Ratio: If you prefer a creamy texture, you can add a little extra broth or water. Just be mindful of the cooking time.

4. Cover Well: Make sure the lid fits properly on your pan to keep the steam in while cooking. This ensures even cooking and the proper texture for the rice and lentils.

5. Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld even further.

Flavor Variations for Easy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice

1. Herb Infused: Try adding bay leaves or thyme while simmering for an extra layer of herbal flavor.

2. Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or diced chili peppers if you enjoy a spicier dish.

3. Veggie Boost: Toss in seasonal vegetables like spinach, kale, or carrots towards the end of cooking for additional nutrition and texture.

4. Tropical Twist: Stir in coconut milk instead of some of the broth for a creamy, tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with lentils and rice.

5. Cheesy Finish: For a comforting twist, sprinkle some grated cheese on top just before serving, allowing it to melt slightly.

Serving Suggestions for Easy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice

This one-pan garlicky lentil rice can be served alone or as a side dish to complement various main courses. It’s delightful with:

• Grilled or baked chicken for a hearty meal.
• A fresh garden salad to balance out the rice’s warmth.
• Roasted vegetables for a nutritious, colorful plate.
• A dollop of yogurt or raita on top for a refreshing element.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Easy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little added broth or water to restore moisture.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Portion it into containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|———|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 12g |
| Sodium | 400mg |

FAQ About Easy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice

Can I use different types of rice in this recipe?

Absolutely! While basmati or jasmine rice works best for a fluffy texture, you can substitute with brown rice or even quinoa. Just be aware that cooking times and water ratios may vary with different grains, so adjust accordingly.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

This dish is naturally gluten-free, as all the listed ingredients, including lentils and rice, contain no gluten. Just ensure that any vegetable broth you use is labeled gluten-free, especially if it is packaged.

Can I make this dish without garlic?

Yes, you can make this recipe without garlic if you prefer or have a sensitivity to it. You can replace the garlic with other aromatics like shallots or simply increase the onion amount for added flavor.

What can I serve as a protein side?

To add protein to your meal, you could serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. Alternatively, consider a simple chickpea salad for a vegetarian option that complements the dish beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Just cook a larger batch and portion it out into containers for quick, nutritious meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Easy one-pan garlicky lentil rice truly embraces the essence of home-cooked comfort food. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can prepare a dish that is nourishing, filling, and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s for a quiet night at home or a gathering with friends, this easy meal will surely be a hit! So why not give it a try? Your soul — and your taste buds — will thank you!

Easy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice

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• Author: recipesforcook
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A warm and hearty one-pan dish featuring protein-rich lentils and fluffy rice, perfect for nourishment and minimal cleanup.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup Brown or Green Lentils
• 1 cup Long-Grain Rice
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 small Onion, chopped
• 3 cups Vegetable Broth
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• ½ teaspoon Turmeric
• to taste Salt
• to taste Black Pepper
• to taste Fresh Parsley or Cilantro, chopped
• to taste Lemon Wedges
• to taste Red Chili Flakes

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pan, add onion and cook until soft (3-4 minutes).
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add lentils and rice, stirring to combine with onions and garlic.
4. Add cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper; mix well.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils and rice are cooked.
7. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and adjust seasoning. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or cilantro and lemon juice, with red chili flakes for a kick.

Notes

For added flavor, use fresh ingredients and consider adding seasonal vegetables or herbs.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 0mg