Spiced Lentils
Warm up your weeknight meals with this flavorful Spiced Lentils recipe, a vibrant and protein-packed dish infused with aromatic spices and zesty fresh ingredients. Perfectly tender green or brown lentils simmer in a fragrant blend of cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon, with a hint of cayenne for a subtle kick. A medley of sautéed onion, garlic, and grated ginger adds depth, while diced tomatoes and a splash of lemon juice brighten the dish. Ready in just 45 minutes, this one-pot recipe is as easy as it is satisfying. Serve it as a wholesome main course with rice or naan, or enjoy it as a hearty side dish. Naturally vegan and gluten-free, Spiced Lentils is a versatile crowd-pleaser that brings bold, comforting flavors to your table.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium, finely chopped yellow onion
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon, grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 0.5 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon (optional) cayenne pepper
- 1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon (or to taste) salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional) fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toast the spices for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth (or water), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the mixture has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro (if using) and the lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.
Serve hot as a main dish with rice, naan, or crusty bread, or as a hearty side dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
169 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 7.5 g | 10% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.1 g | 6% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 902 mg | 39% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 21.0 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.8 g | 24% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.6 g | ||
| Protein | 6.4 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 50 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 2.3 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 627 mg | 13% | |
*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.
