If you’re in search of a warm, wholesome dish that encapsulates cozy vibes, look no further than these Spiced Lentils with Carrots. I’ve spent countless evenings perfecting this recipe, and each time, the fragrant spices waft through my kitchen, instantly warming my heart. The sweet and earthy notes of the lentils paired with tender carrots create a harmony that feels like a comforting embrace. This dish is not only satisfying but also works wonders for meal prep. Feel free to check out my Homemade Healthy Winter Salad for a refreshing side!
About Spiced Lentils with Carrots
Spiced Lentils with Carrots is a Moroccan-inspired dish that balances warm spices and nutritious ingredients. Throughout my testing process, I discovered how versatile this dish can be. Whether you’re cooking for a family, seeking budget-friendly options, or simply want a comforting bowl on a chilly day, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples!
- Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Budget-friendly, using inexpensive ingredients.
- A family favorite with cozy flavors that please everyone.
- Moroccan spices add depth and warmth, enhancing the dish’s profile.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Brown Lentils: The star of the dish, they provide protein and fiber. Rinse them well to remove any debris.
- Carrots: Add natural sweetness and vibrant color, plus they cook perfectly alongside the lentils.
- Spices (Cumin, Cinnamon, Allspice): Infuse the dish with warm, aromatic flavors. Adjust to taste for a spicier kick.
- Vegetable Broth: Enhances the overall flavor; homemade broth can elevate the dish further.
How to Make Spiced Lentils with Carrots
- Start by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, grating the ginger, and peeling and chopping the carrots into bite-sized pieces.
- In a deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes, allowing the scents to envelop your kitchen.
- Introduce the chopped carrots, ground cumin, cinnamon, allspice, and crushed red pepper. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes to awaken the spices and gently heat the carrots.
- Stir in the uncooked lentils, tomato paste, dried apricots (or raisins), and vegetable broth. Ensure the tomato paste dissolves fully. Cover the skillet and increase heat to high until it reaches a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let the lentils simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the lentils and carrots are tender.
- After 30 minutes, taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Depending on your broth’s saltiness, you may not need much!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- During prep, make it easier by using a food processor for chopping onions and carrots; it saves time.
- Don’t rush the simmering stage! If you notice the broth reducing too quickly, lower the heat and add a splash of water as needed.
- Feeling adventurous? Swap out the apricots for raisins or use sweet potatoes instead of carrots for a seasonal twist.
- Easily double this recipe for meal prep; just make sure to account for additional cooking time.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, a quick simmer on the stove ensures the flavors meld beautifully again. I found that letting it sit for a day in the fridge makes the flavors even richer!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Spiced Lentils with Carrots with warm crusty bread for dipping or serve it over a bed of fluffy polenta. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple side salad; check out my Homemade Healthy Winter Salad or Healthy Sour Candied Frozen Grapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I use instead of brown lentils? Green lentils or red lentils work, but cooking times may vary.
- Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground? Absolutely! Fresh ginger adds a bright flavor, just use a tablespoon instead.
- How do I make this dish spicier? Increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Can I add vegetables? Yes! Spinach or kale can easily be stirred in towards the end of cooking.
- How can I make this dish vegan? It’s already vegan! Ensure to use a plant-based broth for full flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Spiced Lentils with Carrots dish has truly become a staple in my kitchen. I adore how easy it is to prepare and how well it stores, making it the perfect meal prep option. I encourage you to try it and let me know how it turned out for you!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Homemade Healthy Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies – combines carrots for a sweet treat
- Homemade Healthy Crispy Roasted Chickpeas – offers a protein-packed pairing
- Homemade Southern Black Eyed Peas Recipe – shared comfort food vibe
- Homemade Garlicky Cabbage Soup – a hearty option with a spice complement
- Creamy Vegetable Soup – rich in flavors suitable for pairing
Spiced Lentils with Carrots
Ingredients
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
- 4 carrots about 2 cups chopped
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
- 1 cup brown lentils
- 3 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots or raisins
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 Tbsp chopped parsley optional
Instructions
- Dice the onion, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and peel and dice the carrots.
- Add the onion, garlic, ginger, and olive oil to a deep skillet. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent (about five minutes).
- Add the diced carrots, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, and crushed red pepper to the skillet. Continue to sauté for about two minutes more.
- Next, add the uncooked lentils, tomato paste, raisins or chopped apricots, and broth to the skillet. Stir until the tomato paste has dissolved into the broth. Place a lid on the skillet and turn the heat up to high.
- Allow the broth to come to a full boil. Once boiling, turn the heat down to medium-low and let the lentils simmer in the broth with the lid on for 30 minutes, stirring only occasionally.
- After 30 minutes the lentils and carrots should be very tender. Give the lentils a taste and add salt or pepper if needed (this will depend on the salt content of your broth, I did not add any).
- Serve the spiced lentils with crusty bread for dipping, or over a bed of polenta or mashed potatoes. Top with chopped fresh parsley if desired.