One Pot Creamy Spinach Lentils Recipe
Description:
One Pot Creamy Spinach Lentils is a rich and hearty dish where the earthy flavors of lentils and vibrant spinach come together in perfect harmony. This comforting recipe takes inspiration from a variety of regional Indian styles such as the North Indian Dal Palak and the Andhra Palak Pappu, but with a creamy twist that brings in the delicious flavors of an American bake. Ideal for a wholesome lunch, it combines nutritious lentils and leafy greens, making it the perfect meal for any occasion, especially when paired with garlic bread and a refreshing Piña Colada Mocktail.
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Masoor Dal (Whole) | 1/2 cup |
| Spinach | 1 cup (chopped) |
| Rocket leaves | 1/2 cup (chopped, optional—use more spinach if not available) |
| Butter (Salted) | 2 teaspoons |
| Onion | 1 (chopped) |
| Tomato | 1 (chopped) |
| Fresh cream | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Dry white wine | 1/2 cup |
| Basil leaves | 2-3 leaves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red Chilli flakes | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 90 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the lentils:
Begin by heating salted butter in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Add the washed Masoor dal (lentils) to the pan and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Cook the lentils:
Add enough water to the pan to just cover the lentils. Stir gently, then cover the pan and let the lentils cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour over low-medium heat. You can speed up this process by using a pressure cooker for faster cooking. -
Incorporate the vegetables and wine:
Once the lentils are fully cooked and tender, it’s time to introduce the other ingredients. Add the dry white wine, spinach, rocket leaves (if using), and chopped tomatoes to the pan. Let everything simmer together for about 5-6 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the tomatoes to soften. -
Finish the dish:
Add the red chilli flakes, basil leaves, fresh cream, and milk to the pan. Stir everything to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once the dish has come to a boil, remove the pan from heat. Allow the lentils to stand for 15-20 minutes so that they can absorb all the wonderful flavors. -
Serve:
Your One Pot Creamy Spinach Lentils is now ready to serve! For an extra touch, pair it with some garlic bread on the side for a satisfying and complete meal. A Piña Colada Mocktail made with pineapple and coconut milk makes for the perfect refreshing drink to accompany this dish. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that’s sure to impress!
Allergen Information
- Dairy: Contains butter, cream, and milk.
- Gluten: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Wine: Contains alcohol (dry white wine).
- Legumes: Contains lentils (Masoor dal).
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
Dietary Preferences
This recipe is suitable for those following a vegetarian diet. It is also naturally gluten-free, making it ideal for those with gluten sensitivities. The addition of fresh vegetables and lentils makes this dish high in fiber and protein, perfect for a hearty, plant-based meal.
Tips & Advise
- Wine substitute: If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can replace the dry white wine with vegetable broth or simply use water to maintain the creamy texture.
- Spinach alternatives: If rocket leaves are not available or you prefer a different flavor, you can use more spinach or even kale as a substitute.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker dish, reduce the amount of water added initially to cook the lentils. Alternatively, you can cook the lentils for a longer time to allow the flavors to deepen.
- Make ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving for a quick and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
One Pot Creamy Spinach Lentils is a delightful fusion of flavors, bringing together hearty lentils, fresh greens, and a rich creamy sauce. The combination of spinach and lentils makes it a nutrient-dense meal that is satisfying yet light. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish for lunch or as part of a larger meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone. Paired with garlic bread and a refreshing Piña Colada Mocktail, this dish makes for a perfect meal that is both nourishing and indulgent. Enjoy the warmth and goodness of this simple yet elegant dish!
