Ranch Style Lentils
Packed with smoky, savory flavors and a hearty texture, Ranch Style Lentils are a one-pot wonder that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Made with tender green or brown lentils simmered in a rich blend of spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin, this recipe is balanced with the tangy depth of tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, these lentils come together in under an hour, requiring minimal prep while offering maximum flavor. Serve them as a satisfying standalone dish, or pair them with fluffy rice or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal. High in plant-based protein, this recipe is a must-try for vegetarians and lentil lovers alike!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Lentils (green or brown)
- 4 cups Water or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 15-ounce can Canned diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Set aside.
In a medium-sized pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and stir to coat them in the spice mixture.
Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
Once the lentils are tender, stir in the canned diced tomatoes (including their liquid) and Worcestershire sauce. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to your preference.
Remove from heat and let the lentils sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Pair with rice, crusty bread, or enjoy on its own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
193 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 10.3 g | 13% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.8 g | 9% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 2 mg | 1% | |
| Sodium | 670 mg | 29% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 20.1 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.6 g | 27% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.3 g | ||
| Protein | 6.3 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 74 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 3.1 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 540 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
