Lentils and Beans One Pot Meal

Lentils and beans are sources of protein. Protein is a vital nutrient that plays a key role in maintaining and repairing the body with all their vital nutrients including folate, antioxidants, reduced risk of cancer, and also controlling appetite and being full of fiber, they are very healthy foods to be consumed daily. The time in which we are living now is so busy and not many of us have time to prepare a good healthy meal in a little time.  I created this recipe after doing some research into many good reliable chefs with similar recipes. The lentils and beans can make a good pair for salad. However, today I will introduce a one pot meal with plenty of protein and fiber. 

 

Ingredients:

1 cup basmati rice, rinsed well

1/2 cup lentils, soaked overnight and drained

1/2 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight or use canned beans

1/2 cup white or red onions, diced

1 tomato, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 piece fresh ginger, minced (about 2 tsp)

2 tbs spice mix **

2 tsp salt and black pepper 

1 and 3/4 cup vegetable broth

2 tbs coconut oil or oil of your choice

Other necessities:

Chopped cilantro, green onions

Rice cooker 

Directions:

Cook the beans in the rice cooker in the morning for 10 minutes. Drain. You can use any beans that suit your taste.

In a sauté pan, add oil and then heat the pan. Add garlic, ginger, and onions. Stir and cook until fragrant about (3 minutes). Stir in lentils, rice, and spice mix. Cook for 5 minutes.

Pour all the above mixture into the rice cooker. Stir in cooked black beans, salt, and pepper and mix well; top with fresh tomato and broth. Close the lid and turn the cook function on. Follow the instructions for your rice cooker. 

When the rice cooker is done, adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Top with cilantros and green onions before serving.

For vegans, just enjoy as is.

Serve this rice on the side, and accompany it with grilled fish, shrimp, or chicken.

Spice mix recipe:

2 tbs turmeric

2 tbs chili flakes

1 tbs paprika

2 tbs cinnamon powder

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp coriander

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp ginger powder

1 tsp clove

In a bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well. Store in a jar with a lid.