MUM'S EVERYDAY RED LENTILS

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Mum's Everyday Red Lentils image

Categories     Bean     Soup/Stew

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 cup t red lentils
2 cups water
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 piece 1/2-inch piece ginger, peeled and minced
2 medium tomatoes, diced, optional
1 serrano chile, slice in 1/2, optional
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, heaping
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 handful chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 teaspoon salt

Steps:

  • Put the lentils in a strainer and rinse them under running water. Add them to a bowl, cover with water and let soak for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of water, the onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, chile, if using, and the lentils. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Skim any scum from the surface. DO NOT ADD SALT YET; it will toughen the lentils, thereby lengthening their cooking time. Lower the heat, cover the pot with a lid and gently simmer until the lentils are tender, almost translucent, and almost falling apart, about 30 to 40 minutes.
  • Whisk the lentils, releasing its natural starch, and mash some them so the mixture becomes thick. Add salt, to taste.
  • Tempering oil (bagaar): In a small bowl, combine the cumin and mustard seeds. In another bowl, combine the spice powders. Have all the ingredients ready because this will move very fast!
  • In a small skillet, over a medium-high flame, warm 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add seeds and immediately cover so you don't get covered in spluttering oil and seeds! Add the spices. They should sizzle and bubble a little - that's the blooming and it's exactly what you want. Don't let them burn. The mixture should bloom for about 30 seconds, no more.
  • Pour the oil mixture into the lentils, standing back so you don't get hurt when the mixture splutters again. Add salt to taste. Stir to combine. Transfer the lentils to a serving dish and garnish with cilantro.

Simon Salinas
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5 stars!


Ariyan Monna
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This is a great recipe for beginners. It's simple to follow and the results are delicious. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is new to cooking lentils.


Madina Nante
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I love this recipe! It's so easy to make and the lentils are always cooked perfectly. I like to add a bit of chopped cilantro at the end for a pop of freshness.


Rosalind Hardy
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This recipe is a great base for a lentil soup. I added some chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes and it was delicious!


Akind Din
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I followed the recipe exactly and the lentils turned out mushy. I think I'll try cooking them for a shorter amount of time next time.


model 5709
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This recipe was a bit bland for my taste. I think it could use some more spices or herbs. Other than that, it was a quick and easy meal to make.


Mariatu Mansarat
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I'm not a huge fan of lentils, but this recipe was surprisingly good. The lentils were cooked perfectly and the sauce was flavorful and well-balanced. I would definitely make this again.


Devin Edmond
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Easy and delicious! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal. The lentils cook quickly and the sauce is flavorful and satisfying. I served it with a side of naan bread and it was a hit with the whole family.


Idoit India
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This recipe is a game-changer! I used to hate lentils, but this recipe has changed my mind. The lentils are so creamy and flavorful. I love the addition of the tomatoes and spices. I will definitely be making this again.


JALAl Uddin
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Yum! This is one of my favorite lentil recipes. The lentils are cooked perfectly and the sauce is so flavorful. I like to serve it with a side of rice and vegetables.


Pedro Henrique da Costa Segabinazzi
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This red lentil recipe is a staple in our household. It's quick, easy, and always a hit with the family. The lentils are cooked perfectly and the sauce is flavorful and delicious. I like to add a bit of extra cumin and coriander to give it a bit of a