Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Lentils

   Place 1 cup (200g) of brown lentils in a strainer. Pour water over them to rinse, then transfer to a bowl and soak in water for 4-5 hours.

2. 2.Prepare Rice

   Pour 1 cup (200g) of Basmati rice into a bowl. Wash the rice a few times under running water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the rice in water for about 20 minutes.

3. 3.Sauté Onions

   Heat 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add 3 cups (400g) of chopped onion and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Fry, stirring occasionally, until the onion starts to caramelize and turns golden brown, which should take approximately 10-15 minutes.

4. 4.Add Aromatics

   Reduce the heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon of minced ginger and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the caramelized onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. 5.Add Tomato and Spices

   Pour in 3/4 cup (175ml) of strained tomatoes (passata). Add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

6. 6.Combine Lentils, Rice, and Water

   Add the soaked and drained lentils and the soaked and drained rice to the pot. Add additional salt to taste and pour in 2 cups (475ml) of water. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution.

7. 7.Boil and Simmer

   Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 30 minutes, allowing the rice and lentils to absorb the liquid.

8. 8.Remove Excess Moisture

   After 30 minutes, remove the lid from the pot. Cook uncovered for another 1-2 minutes on low heat to evaporate any remaining excess moisture, ensuring the rice is fluffy.

9. 9.Finish and Rest

   Turn off the heat. Add 3/4 cup (70g) of chopped parsley, lemon juice to taste, 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix all the ingredients very gently to avoid breaking the rice grains. Cover the pot again and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

10. 10.Serve

    Serve the One Pot Mediterranean Lentil & Rice hot as a main dish or a hearty side.