Red lentils with meat

Delicious red lentil recipe with meat - comfort and flavor on a plate

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm, comforting dish that fills your heart and delights your taste buds? Red lentils with meat is a perfect choice, especially on cool days when we want to enjoy a nourishing meal full of flavors. This recipe is not only simple but also an excellent way to include legumes in our diet, offering numerous nutritional benefits.

The history of lentils is fascinating, as they are one of the oldest cultivated plants on the planet. Used for centuries, lentils are appreciated not only for their taste but also for their rich content of protein, fiber, and minerals. The combination with pork adds extra flavor and a protein boost that transforms this dish into a complete meal.

Ingredients:

- 500 g pork (choose lean meat, such as thigh or neck)
- 500 g red lentils (washed and soaked)
- 1 large slice of celery (about 100 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 green garlic stalks (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon peppercorns (or to taste)
- Fresh dill (about one bunch)
- Fresh parsley (about one bunch)
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika (for a touch of color and flavor)
- 1 glass (about 200 ml) of tomato juice
- 100 ml oil
- Salt (to taste)

Preparation of red lentils with meat:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the red lentils under a stream of cold water. It is recommended to soak them in warm water for 2-3 hours. This will shorten the cooking time and help the lentils become easier to digest.

Step 2: Cleaning and chopping the vegetables
Clean and wash the vegetables. Cut the pork into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. The carrots can be sliced into rounds, while the onion and celery should be diced.

Step 3: Sautéing the vegetables and meat
In a large skillet or deep pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, sautéing the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they become slightly translucent. Then, add the pork and brown it on all sides until it changes color.

Step 4: Cooking the lentils
Add the drained lentils to the pot along with the peppercorns, salt, and bay leaves. Fill the pot with water, ensuring that the water covers the lentils well, as they will absorb a lot of water during boiling. Boil the mixture over medium heat, stirring periodically to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you notice that the water is decreasing too much, top up with hot water.

Step 5: Finishing the dish
After about an hour of boiling, when the lentils are tender, add the tomato juice and sweet paprika. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Finally, add the finely chopped greens (dill and parsley) for a fresh and vibrant taste.

Step 6: Serving
Serve the red lentils with meat warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or croutons. You can also drizzle some olive oil on top for extra flavor.

Practical tips:

- You can replace the pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter version of the recipe.
- If you like a spicier taste, add a fresh chili pepper during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- This recipe can also be adapted for vegans by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- Red lentils keep excellently in the fridge, so you can make a larger batch and enjoy it the next day.

Frequently asked questions:

1. What are the nutritional benefits of red lentils?
Red lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and B vitamins. They are low in fat and help maintain digestive health.

2. Can I use lentils of other colors?
Of course! Green or brown lentils can be used, but the cooking time will be different. Always check the instructions on the package.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe by removing the meat and adding a variety of vegetables or spices to enhance its flavor.

4. What other dishes can it be combined with?
Red lentils with meat pair excellently with a fresh green salad or warm polenta. You can also enjoy a glass of dry white wine or lemonade.

In conclusion, red lentils with meat is a dish that combines tradition and innovation in the kitchen. Simple to make and full of flavor, it will bring joy to you and your loved ones. Don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family, as every meal is better when enjoyed together. Enjoy your meal!