SPICED LENTIL AND BASMATI RICE BOWL
The spiced lentil and basmati rice bowl is a comforting and aromatic dish infused with warm, earthy flavours. The fragrant basmati rice pairs beautifully with protein-rich lentils, while garam masala adds a rich depth of flavour. Caramelized onions provide a hint of sweetness that balances the dish perfectly. Inspired by South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines, this bowl is a wholesome and satisfying meal, perfect for a nourishing lunch or a simple yet flavourful dinner. High in fibre and plant-based protein, it’s a great vegetarian option that can be easily adapted to different dietary needs. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with a side of yoghurt or flatbread, this bowl is a comforting and aromatic delight. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s packed with essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping and busy weeknights.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Entrée, Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
South Asian, Middle Eastern
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Boil, Simmer, Sauté, One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Ramadan, Family Dinner, Meal Prep, Fall, Winter, Weeknight Dinner
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Fibre, Vegan, Vegetarian, Wheat / Gluten-Free, Low Fat, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Bowl, Grain Bowl, Comfort Food
INGREDIENTS OF SPICED LENTIL AND BASMATI RICE BOWL
- 50g basmati rice, cooked
- 40g cooked lentils
- ½ tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp caramelized onions
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fibre: 6g
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Sugar: 2g
PREPARATION FOR SPICED LENTIL AND BASMATI RICE BOWL
- Cook The Basmati Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, bring 120ml of water to a boil. Add the rice, cover and simmer on low heat for 12-15 minutes until tender. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Prepare The Lentils: If using dried lentils, rinse them thoroughly and cook in boiling water for 20-25 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside. If using canned lentils, drain and rinse before use.
- Caramelize The Onions: Heat a pan over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and slightly crispy. This takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Season With Garam Masala: In the same pan, add the cooked lentils and sprinkle them in the garam masala. Stir well to combine, and let the spices infuse for a minute.
- Assemble The Bowl: In a serving bowl, layer the cooked basmati rice at the base. Add the spiced lentils on top.
- Top With Caramelized Onions: Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the dish for added sweetness and texture.
- Serve And Enjoy: Enjoy this dish warm, either as a standalone meal or with a side of yoghurt or flatbread.
PREP TIME
10 minutes
COOKING TIME
30 minutes
TIPS FOR SPICED LENTIL AND BASMATI RICE BOWL
- For Extra Flavour, cook the rice with a bay leaf and a pinch of salt.
- To Speed Up Preparation, use pre-cooked or canned lentils.
- To Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions, cook them on low heat and add a small pinch of sugar to help them brown evenly.
- For A Richer Taste, toast the garam masala in a dry pan for a few seconds before adding it to the lentils.
- For An Extra Kick, sprinkle a pinch of chilli powder or cayenne over the dish.
VARIATIONS IN SPICED LENTIL AND BASMATI RICE BOWL
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a dollop of Greek yoghurt or coconut yoghurt before serving.
- Add More Protein: Mix in chickpeas or paneer for an extra protein boost.
- Add Greens: Stir in some baby spinach or kale for added nutrients.
- Make It Spicier: Drizzle with hot sauce or mix in some diced green chillies.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Cooked rice and lentils can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent dryness.