Ingredients

1 medium onion , chopped
1/4 cup vegetable oil , divided
1 1/2 inches cinnamon sticks
6 cardamom pods
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon coriander seed
1/2 teaspoon cumin seed
2 dried red chilies
3 whole cloves
3/4 cup basmati rice
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
kosher salt
2/3 cup lentils
1/2 lb potato , cut into 1/2 inch cubes ( boiling kind , like Yukon gold or Red Bliss )
3 medium carrots , grated
fresh ground black pepper
The Rice and Lentil Pilaf is a flavorful, mildly spiced Indian dish that is a great vegetarian option that will not disappoint. Packed with rich flavors and textures, it is often enjoyed by families in India. The dish is made up of a mixture of basmati rice, lentils, potatoes, and carrots, infused with aromatic Indian spices. It is typically served for lunch or dinner as a main course meal. It's easy to cook and also makes great leftovers that can be reheated for lunch the next day. The combination of carbohydrates and protein makes it a complete meal in itself that will keep you feeling fuller longer and provide energy for the rest of the day.

Instructions

1.Begin by rinsing the rice and lentils separately in cold water and draining them well.
2.Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3.Add the onion and cook it until it is lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
4.Add the cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, bay leaf, coriander seed, cumin seed, dried red chilies, and cloves to the onion mixture, and stir well.
5.Add the rice to the mixture and stir well.
6.Add 1 1/2 cups of water, turmeric, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the rice mixture, and stir well.
7.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer it for 8 minutes covered.
8.In another saucepan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil and cook the potatoes until they are browned.
9.Add the grated carrots to the saucepan and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes.
10.Add the lentils to the saucepan and stir well.
11.Pour 1 1/2 cups of water into the saucepan, and bring it to a boil.
12.Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat and cover the saucepan.
13.Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes or until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
14.Mix the lentil and potato mixture with the rice mixture and heat it up covered for about 5 minutes on low heat.
15.From the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

PROS

This recipe is easy to make and has a great blend of spices.

It is rich in nutrients like protein and fiber found in the lentils and vegetables.

The spices used in the recipe have numerous health benefits.

CONS

This dish may not be suitable for people who are carb-conscious.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The lentils in this recipe are a great source of plant-based protein, which helps in weight management, reducing inflammation, and helps in maintaining healthy bones.
The spices used in this recipe like Cinnamon and Cumin have antioxidant properties that may help in reducing inflammation and keeping diseases like diabetes and hypertension at bay.
Potatoes are good sources of vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6. Carrots are low in calories, high in fiber, and Vitamin A

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