Chinese Lentil Pot

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. Start by finely dicing 1 onion and mincing 2 cloves of garlic. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the onion and garlic. Stir frequently, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases its aroma, ensuring they do not brown.
2. Measure 300 g of red lentils and rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot with the softened onions and garlic. Stir to coat the lentils in the aromatic base, allowing them to absorb the flavors for about a minute.
3. Pour in 1.5 liters of water and add 1 teaspoon of cumin to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer. Stir occasionally, watching for the lentils to soften and begin to break down, creating a thick, stew-like consistency.
4. As the lentils cook, slice the lemon in half and set it aside. Once the lentils have reached a creamy texture, squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the pot. Stir to incorporate, tasting to adjust the seasoning with fine sea salt and black pepper as desired.
5. Continue to simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The dish is ready when the lentils are tender and the pot has a fragrant, savory aroma with a hint of citrus. Serve the Chinese Lentil Pot warm, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired, and enjoy it as a comforting, shared meal.