Why Make This Recipe
Lentils with Rice, Egg, and Avocado is a delicious and healthy meal that is easy to make. It combines protein-packed lentils, nutritious vegetables, and creamy avocado for a satisfying dish. This recipe is not only filling but also great for meal prep, helping you save time during your busy week. Plus, it is suitable for vegetarians and can be a great addition to your dinner table or lunch box.
How to Make Lentils with Rice, Egg, and Avocado
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown or green lentils, dry
- 1/4 onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup diced potato
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1/2 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 fried egg
- 1/4 avocado, sliced
Directions
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Cook the Lentils: In a pan, heat the oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until they are soft. Add the diced carrots and potatoes. Stir in the lentils and spices. Pour in the vegetable broth or water, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender, and the sauce thickens.
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Cook the Rice: Prepare the white or brown rice according to the package instructions.
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Fry the Egg: In a small pan, fry an egg sunny-side-up in a little oil until the whites are set, but the yolk remains runny.
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Assemble the Bowl: In a bowl, add a scoop of cooked rice. Spoon the lentil mixture over the rice. Top with the fried egg and avocado slices. Finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro on top.
How to Serve Lentils with Rice, Egg, and Avocado
Serve this dish warm in a bowl. You can enjoy it as a complete meal or even as a hearty lunch. It pairs well with a side salad for extra greens!
How to Store Lentils with Rice, Egg, and Avocado
If you have leftovers, store the lentils and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Avoid storing the fried egg and avocado with the leftovers, as they are best enjoyed fresh.
Tips to Make Lentils with Rice, Egg, and Avocado
- Rinse and sort lentils before cooking to remove any debris.
- Adjust the spices to your taste. You can add more cumin or chili powder for extra flavor.
- To make it vegan, skip the egg or use a plant-based alternative.
- For added texture, you can toast some seeds or nuts to sprinkle on top.
Variation
You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. If you prefer a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned lentils instead of dry ones?
Yes, you can use canned lentils. Rinse and drain them, then add them to the pan during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
2. How do I make it gluten-free?
This recipe is already gluten-free as it uses lentils, rice, and vegetables. Just ensure that any added ingredients are gluten-free.
3. What can I substitute for avocado?
If you don’t have avocado, you can use a dollop of yogurt or hummus for creaminess, or simply enjoy it without any topping.
