Description
Easy Brown Lentils is a simple, hearty side dish featuring tender brown lentils simmered in flavorful vegetable stock with aromatic herbs and a savory blend of garlic, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe makes a nutritious accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Lentils and Vegetables
- 1 pound dried brown lentils
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Broth
- 1 cup low sodium vegetable stock (can use chicken stock or water)
- 4 cups water
Herbs & Seasonings
- 4 sprigs thyme (tied with kitchen string or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Sort the Lentils: Spread the dried brown lentils out on a baking sheet and inspect carefully to remove any pebbles or debris. Set the cleaned lentils aside.
- Sauté Onions: Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then stir in chopped onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and slightly translucent.
- Add Lentils and Liquids: Add the cleaned lentils to the saucepan along with the vegetable stock, tied thyme sprigs (or dried thyme), bay leaf, and water. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Lentils: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer gently for about 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Finish and Season: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Notes
- To make the dish vegan, ensure the Worcestershire sauce used is vegan-friendly or substitute with tamari sauce.
- Rinsing lentils before starting can help remove excess dirt and dust.
- You can substitute brown lentils with green lentils, but cooking time may vary slightly.
- Use low sodium broth to control salt levels, especially if adjusting seasonings later.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and make a great addition to salads or grain bowls.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
