A comforting and nourishing dish made with tender lentils, sweet carrots, and warm spices. This recipe is simple to prepare, naturally satisfying, and perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner that feels hearty without being heavy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it both filling and nutritious. The spices add deep flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of the carrots. It is budget-friendly, easy to customize, and works well as a main dish or a side. It also tastes even better the next day, which makes it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 3 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the sliced carrots and cook for another 3 minutes to slightly soften them.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
7. Simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the carrots are cooked through.
8. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a small amount of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
9. Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
10. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes.
Cooking time is about 35 minutes.
Total time is around 45 minutes.

Variations

You can add diced tomatoes for extra richness and acidity. For more heat, include a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper. Sweet potatoes or butternut squash can be used instead of carrots for a different flavor profile. For a soupier version, add an extra cup of broth and serve it as a spiced lentil stew.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils instead of brown or green lentils?

Yes, but red lentils cook faster and will break down more, resulting in a softer, stew-like texture.

Is this recipe spicy?

The dish is mildly spiced but not hot. You can adjust the heat by adding or omitting chili-based spices.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is great for making ahead and often tastes better after the flavors have had time to develop.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.

What can I serve with spiced lentils and carrots?

It pairs well with rice, flatbread, or a simple green salad.

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, use about 2 1/2 cups of cooked lentils and reduce the cooking time since they are already tender.

How do I prevent lentils from becoming mushy?

Avoid overcooking and use brown or green lentils, which hold their shape better.

Can I make this dish oil-free?

Yes, you can sauté the onion and carrots in a small amount of water or broth instead of oil.

What herbs work best for garnish?

Parsley and cilantro are both excellent, but fresh dill can also be a nice addition.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, the flavors are warm and mild, making it generally kid-friendly.

Conclusion

Spiced lentils with carrots are a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that brings warmth and nourishment to the table. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a reliable recipe you can return to again and again, whether for busy weeknights or relaxed meal prep.

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