Chinese Lentil Pot 2

Ingredients

• 300 gred lentils
• 1onion — chopped
• 2 clovesgarlic
• 1 tspcumin
• 1.5 Lwater
• 1 tbspolive oil
• 1lemon — juiced
• to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

1. Begin by finely chopping 1 onion and mincing 2 cloves of garlic. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir frequently, allowing them to soften and become translucent, releasing their aromas without letting them brown.
2. Introduce 1 tsp of cumin to the pot, stirring it into the softened onions and garlic. This will enhance the fragrance and flavor of the dish, creating a warm, earthy base. Allow the cumin to toast for about a minute until it releases its aroma.
3. Rinse 300 g of red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain them well and add to the pot, stirring to coat the lentils in the aromatic mixture. This step ensures the lentils absorb the flavors from the start.
4. Pour in 1.5 L of water, stirring to combine with the lentils and aromatics. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, allowing the lentils to simmer.
5. Simmer the lentils, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and begin to break down, creating a creamy texture. This should take about 20-25 minutes. The lentils should be soft and the mixture thickened.
6. Once the lentils are cooked to the desired texture, season the pot with fine sea salt and black pepper to taste. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon into the pot, stirring well to incorporate the citrus brightness.
7. Finish the dish by drizzling a thread of olive oil over the top before serving. This adds a final layer of richness and sheen to the dish. Serve the Chinese Lentil Pot 2 family-style, encouraging everyone to share and enjoy.