Savory

Lentils & rice with bacon

 

When we hear of lentils the first thing you think of is a lentils soup. But there are so many ways to cook lentils that enable you to escape from the ordinary.

The lentils with rice it was known to me but I never had experienced an interesting dish. Few days ago, I was invited to an event by the company "Haitoglou Bros." (will share details on the night in a next post). There, I tasted lentils with rice and I was thrilled. The generally indifferent dish was made in a way that aromas were all over and the sesame oil was giving the perfect touch in the dish. So, I had to do it myself at home.

I've got the recipe but changed it a bit to have more intense flavors. I added the bacon and corn, and caramelized the onions for extra flavor. I think the result was one excellent dish that even those who do not love lentils will be satisfied. Can be served as a side dish but it can also be a light meal I look forward to cook it for my daughter who does not like lentils that much .. I'm sure she'll approve this dish as lentils are not that intense and are supplemented with other flavors.

Enjoy

 
 

Ingredients : 

 
  • 125 gr lentils
  • 150 gr basmati rice
  • 60 gr sesame oil
  • 2 big red onions (cut in rounds)
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 6 strips of bacon
  • 2 tbsp corn kernels
  • salt - black pepper
 

Preparation : 

 
  1. In a small saucepan boil corn kernels, strain and set aside.
  2. Meanwhile cut bacon in small pieces.
  3. In a saucepan with boiling water pour lentils and boil for about 15 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and keep lentils in the water till needed.
  5. Prepare rice.
  6. In a saucepan with plenty of salted water boil rice for about 15 minutes in medium heat. Strain and set aside.
  7. In a deep skillet or in a low and wide saucepan, heat sesame oil till hot enough.
  8. Add onions and saute.
  9. When onion becomes translucent and soft and starts getting a brown colour add the sugar. Stir and let caramelise.
  10. When onion is ready, add bacon and stir.
  11. Add basmati rice, corn, strained lentils, salt and pepper.
  12. Stir for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors and remove from heat..