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Easy 20-Minute One Pot Lentils

Quick and Tasty Easy 20-Minute One Pot Lentils Delight

This Easy 20-Minute One Pot Lentils recipe is a quick, hearty dish that fits into a busy lifestyle.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Vegan
Calories: 240
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 cup Dry Brown Lentils Soaking them for 10-15 minutes enhances flavor and digestibility.
  • 3 cups Boiling Water Essential for cooking lentils; vegetable broth can be used for added richness.
For the Aromatics
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be swapped with coconut or avocado oil.
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow or white onions work best.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is ideal; garlic powder can substitute.
For the Spices
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Adds earthy flavor and vibrant color.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Imparts warmth and nuttiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Enhances flavor; individual herbs like oregano can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste, using sea salt or kosher salt.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Freshly ground is the best option.
For Garnish (Optional)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Substitute with parsley or omit if preferred.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by soaking the dry brown lentils in hot water for 10-15 minutes. After soaking, drain the lentils and set them aside.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the spices: turmeric, ground cumin, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow the spices to bloom for about 1 minute.
  4. Add the soaked lentils and boiling water to the pot. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for approximately 20 minutes, until lentils are tender.
  5. Check the texture of your lentils. If they need to soften, add a splash of water and cook longer.
  6. Once your lentils reach the desired consistency, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 240kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 13gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 3IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices to your preference.

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