Welcome to the realm of culinary delight, where flavors dance on your palate and textures blend in harmony. Embark on a journey to discover the vibrant and aromatic dish of Pondicherry lentil salad. This enticing culinary creation takes you on a voyage through time and continents, capturing the essence of both French and Indian culinary traditions. With its roots in the bustling city of Pondicherry, this salad is a testament to the region's rich history and cultural influences. As you explore the depths of this tantalizing dish, you'll uncover a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors that will leave you craving more. Prepare to embrace a culinary adventure that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Pondicherry, where the air is filled with the intoxicating aromas of spices, and the flavors of the East and West seamlessly intertwine.
Here are our top 4 tried and tested recipes!
LENTIL-POTATO SALAD
Provided by Rachael Ray : Food Network
Categories side-dish
Time 35m
Yield 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- Add the onion, bay and lentils to a medium pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-low heat. Simmer the lentils 10 minutes, then add the potatoes and cook for 7 to 8 minutes more.
- While the lentils and potatoes cook, heat a tablespoon of oil in a medium skillet over low heat and saute the shallots, garlic and peppers for a couple of minutes. Add the peas and heat through for 1 minute more. Transfer to a shallow serving bowl to cool.
- In a food processor, add the stock, mint and cilantro. Process until it becomes a paste. Add to the bowl with the pepper mixture.
- Drain the lentils and the potatoes and discard the onions and the bay leaf. Return the lentil mixture to the hot pot to dry for a minute, then add to the bowl with herb paste and vegetables. Add 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil to the salad bowl and toss. Season with cumin, and salt and pepper, to taste. Toss again and serve.
MEDITERRANEAN LENTIL SALAD
This is a delicious lentil salad, that keeps very well in the refrigerator.
Provided by Candice
Categories Salad Vegetable Salad Recipes
Time 30m
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- In a saucepan combine lentils, carrots, onion, garlic, bay leaf, and thyme. Add enough water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes or until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Drain lentils and vegetables and remove bay leaf. Add olive oil, lemon juice, celery, parsley, salt and pepper. Toss to mix and serve at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 147.4 calories, Carbohydrate 16.2 g, Fat 7.1 g, Fiber 5.8 g, Protein 6 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 452.8 mg, Sugar 3 g
LENTIL SALAD
Provided by Alton Brown
Categories side-dish
Time 50m
Yield 6 to 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- Whisk the vinegar, olive oil, mustard, salt, pepper, parsley and thyme together in a large mixing bowl. Add the warm lentils and bacon and stir to combine. Serve warm or at room temperature.;
- Pick over the lentils, rinse and drain. Place the lentils along with the onion, garlic, bay leaf, salt and pork into a large 6-quart saucepan and cover with water by 2 to 3 inches. Place over high heat and bring just to a rolling boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer until the lentils are tender, approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Drain any remaining liquid and discard the onion, garlic, bay leaf and salt pork. Stir in black pepper and taste for salt. Serve immediately.
- Note from Alton: Those of you who watched this program on the 17th or 18th will want to disregard one particular suggestion I made regarding lentils: don't feed the left over onions to your dog. It turns out onions are not good for dogs in any shape or form. I'm grateful to the fans who emailed me after the airing for setting me straight on this nutritional peculiarity. As for my own dog's ability to digest onions, well...she's more hog than dog I guess.
- Cook smart,
- Alton
PONDICHERRY LENTIL SALAD
Yield 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- 1. Pick lentils over for any small stones; rinse. Soak 2 hours in tepid water; drain. 2. Place lentils and water in a large saucepan; heat to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cover. Cook until lentils are tender, but still firm, 20-25 minutes. Rinse the lentils with cold water; drain. 3. Mix together the lentils, apple, bell pepper, jalapeno, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar and salt in a large bowl; chill until serving time. 4. Just before serving, heat the sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ginger and coconut; cook, stirring occasionally, until golden, 3-5 minutes. Sprinkle ginger and coconut over the lentils.
Tips:
- Fresh and Local Ingredients: Prioritize fresh, locally-sourced vegetables for optimal flavor and nutritional value.
- Assorted Greens: Use a mix of greens like lettuce, spinach, arugula, or watercress to add texture and variety to the salad.
- Variety of Veggies: Incorporate a colorful array of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, radishes, or cherry tomatoes for a visually appealing and nutrient-packed salad.
- Nuts and Seeds: Add crunch and healthy fats with nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans, and seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or basil, and spices like cumin, coriander, or paprika.
- Dressing Variations: Experiment with different dressings, such as a tangy lemon-tahini dressing, creamy avocado dressing, or a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.
- Marinate Vegetables: Marinating vegetables in a flavorful dressing before adding them to the salad intensifies their taste.
- Cheese and Fruits: Add crumbled feta, goat cheese, or grated Parmesan for a savory touch. Fresh fruits like berries or citrus segments can also add a refreshing sweetness.
- Presentation: Arrange the salad components aesthetically for a visually appealing presentation. Consider using a colorful bowl or plate.
- Taste Test: Always taste the salad before serving and adjust seasonings or add more ingredients as needed.
Conclusion:
Pondicherry Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that celebrates the diverse flavors and textures of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices. By following these tips, you can create a delicious and visually appealing salad that is not only healthy but also a feast for the senses. Experiment with different ingredients and dressings to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, and enjoy this salad as a light lunch, refreshing side dish, or a nutritious main course.
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