INSTANT POT MIDDLE EASTERN LENTILS WITH RICE, LEEKS, AND SPINACH

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Instant Pot Middle Eastern Lentils With Rice, Leeks, and Spinach image

Based on a Middle Eastern mujaddara, this Melissa Clark recipe is a mix of spiced lentils and rice, rich with allspice, cinnamon, and sweet browned leeks.

Provided by Melissa Clark

Categories     Lentil     Rice     Leek     Spinach     Yogurt     Vegetarian     Dinner

Number Of Ingredients 13

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
2 large or 3 small leeks (white and light green parts only), halved and thinly sliced
Kosher salt
2 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup brown or green lentils
1 bay leaf
1 cinnamon stick
3/4 cup long-grain white rice
5 ounces baby spinach
1 cup plain yogurt

Steps:

  • Using the sauté function, heat the oil in the pressure cooker pot. Stir in the leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden at the edges, about 10 minutes.Season with a pinch of salt. Use a slotted spoon to scoop out half the leeks and transfer to a bowl; set aside for the garnish.
  • Stir the garlic into the pot and cook until fragrant, about 15 seconds. Stir in the cumin, allspice, and cayenne and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Add the lentils, 2 cups water, 2 teaspoons salt, the bay leaf, and cinnamon stick to the pot.
  • Lock the lid into place and cook on high pressure for 1 minute. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then manually release the remaining pressure.
  • Uncover the pot and stir in the rice, working quickly so the lentil mixture stays hot. Lock the lid back into place and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Manually release the pressure.
  • Uncover and stir in the spinach. Cover the pot with the lid (but don't lock it on) and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to wilt the greens and finish cooking the rice.
  • In a small bowl, season the yogurt with salt to taste.
  • Discard the bay leaf and cinnamon stick. Serve the lentils warm, garnished with the reserved leeks and salted yogurt on top, and drizzled with more olive oil.

Abdu Sami
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Meh.


Salma El hofy
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Not a fan. The lentils were too mushy and the vegetables were undercooked.


pak khaans
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I tried this recipe and it was just okay. The lentils were a bit bland and the vegetables didn't have much flavor.


Anxiety Cosplays
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This lentil dish was a disappointment. The lentils were overcooked and the vegetables were mushy. The spices were also not well-balanced.


Md Shihab Khan
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I'm not usually a fan of lentils, but this recipe changed my mind. The lentils were cooked perfectly and the vegetables were tender and flavorful. I loved the addition of spinach, which gave the dish a nice boost of nutrients.


Mukta Sarker
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Delicious and easy to make, this lentil dish is a great choice for a healthy and flavorful meal. The combination of lentils, rice, and vegetables is a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and nutrients.


Raul Enrique Pantojas's Emporium
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This recipe was a hit! The lentils were cooked perfectly and the vegetables were tender and flavorful. I loved the addition of leeks, which gave the dish a nice savory flavor.


David boleen
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So good! This lentil dish is packed with flavor and the vegetables add a nice crunch. I loved the addition of spinach, which gave the dish a boost of nutrients.


Hio Gh
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Amazing recipe! The lentils were cooked perfectly and the vegetables were tender and flavorful. The spices added a delicious depth of flavor. This dish is definitely a keeper.


Walter Balram
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Delicious and nutritious, this lentil dish is a must-try for anyone looking for a flavorful and healthy meal. The combination of lentils, rice, leeks, and spinach creates a satisfying and balanced dish that is perfect for lunch or dinner.


Shoaib Memon
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This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It's quick and easy to make, and it's always a hit with my family. The lentils and rice are perfectly cooked and the vegetables are tender and flavorful. It's a great way to get a healthy and satisfying


Raju Bhi
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This dish is a keeper! I've made it several times and it never disappoints. The lentils and rice are perfectly cooked and the vegetables are tender and flavorful. It's a great recipe for a healthy and satisfying meal.


Khan Online
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I love this recipe! It's so easy to make and always turns out perfectly. I've made it for potlucks and dinner parties and it's always a crowd-pleaser.


Sujeewa Sujeewa
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This dish was a hit with my family! The kids loved the lentils and rice, and the adults enjoyed the complex flavors of the leeks and spinach. It's a great recipe for a quick and easy weeknight meal.


Aryan Bhai
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Just made this recipe and it was absolutely delicious! The lentils were perfectly cooked and the vegetables were tender and flavorful. I'll definitely be making this again.


Mdanik Hasan
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This Instant Pot Middle Eastern Lentils dish was a delightful culinary journey. The fusion of lentils, rice, leeks, and spinach resulted in a symphony of flavors and textures. It's a hearty and nutritious meal that is sure to impress.