Chinese Lentil Pot 3

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 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, stirring occasionally. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, taking care not to let them brown, as this will create a bitter flavor.
2. Stir in 1 teaspoon of cumin, allowing it to toast in the oil for about a minute. This will release the spice's essential oils, enhancing the dish's aroma. You'll know it's ready when the cumin's warm, earthy scent becomes prominent.
3. Add 300 g of red lentils to the pot, stirring them to coat with the aromatic oil and spices. Pour in 1.5 liters of water, ensuring the lentils are fully submerged. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Allow the lentils to simmer gently. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid, resulting in a creamy consistency.
5. As the lentils reach the desired texture, cut 1 lemon in half and squeeze its juice into the pot, catching any seeds. Stir well to distribute the citrus flavor, which will brighten the dish.
6. Taste the lentil pot and season with fine sea salt and black pepper to your liking. Adjust as necessary, keeping in mind that the salt should enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.
7. Finish the dish by drizzling a small amount of olive oil over the top before serving. This will add a rich, glossy finish and a touch of luxury to the humble lentils. Serve the Chinese Lentil Pot 3 family-style, inviting everyone to share in this comforting and aromatic dish.