To prepare a delicious lentil recipe with tomato sauce, we start by ensuring that the lentils are properly prepared. We wash the lentils in several waters to remove impurities, then let them soak in cold water overnight. This step is essential as it helps reduce cooking time and achieve a more pleasant texture. The next day, we rinse the lentils under cold running water and put them to boil in fresh water, allowing them to cook for about 15 minutes. It is important to know that the lentils will continue to cook along with the tomato sauce, so it is not necessary to cook them completely.
While the lentils are boiling, we can take care of the other ingredients. We chop the onion very finely so that it integrates easily into the dish, and we crush the garlic to release its flavors. We grate the fresh tomatoes, obtaining a delicious puree that will form the base of our sauce. After the lentils have boiled for a few minutes, we drain them and transfer them to a larger pot. Over the lentils, we add the grated tomatoes, chopped onion, crushed garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. We mix all the ingredients well with a wooden spoon, ensuring that the lentils are evenly coated with the tomato sauce.
When the dish starts to boil, we reduce the heat to minimum and cover the pot with a lid. We let it simmer for about 20 minutes, during which the tomato juice will reduce, and the flavors will concentrate. If you want to add a hint of flavor, now is the time to include your favorite spices, such as basil, oregano, turmeric, or ginger. These will enrich the dish and give it a special flavor. We let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure all ingredients are well integrated.
When the sauce has thickened and the aroma is irresistible, the dish is ready. Serve the lentils warm, alongside a fresh salad or with crusty bread. This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, providing an excellent source of protein and fiber. Enjoy your meal!
While the lentils are boiling, we can take care of the other ingredients. We chop the onion very finely so that it integrates easily into the dish, and we crush the garlic to release its flavors. We grate the fresh tomatoes, obtaining a delicious puree that will form the base of our sauce. After the lentils have boiled for a few minutes, we drain them and transfer them to a larger pot. Over the lentils, we add the grated tomatoes, chopped onion, crushed garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. We mix all the ingredients well with a wooden spoon, ensuring that the lentils are evenly coated with the tomato sauce.
When the dish starts to boil, we reduce the heat to minimum and cover the pot with a lid. We let it simmer for about 20 minutes, during which the tomato juice will reduce, and the flavors will concentrate. If you want to add a hint of flavor, now is the time to include your favorite spices, such as basil, oregano, turmeric, or ginger. These will enrich the dish and give it a special flavor. We let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure all ingredients are well integrated.
When the sauce has thickened and the aroma is irresistible, the dish is ready. Serve the lentils warm, alongside a fresh salad or with crusty bread. This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, providing an excellent source of protein and fiber. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
250 g green lentils, one small onion or half a large onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 3 large ripe fresh tomatoes, 1/2 lemon juice, salt and pepper, optional: basil, oregano, turmeric, ginger (I did not add)