Adas Bil Hamod – Lentils With Lemon Juice

Adas Bil Hamod, also known as “Lentils with Lemon Juice,” is a traditional Lebanese dish that features cooked lentils infused with the tangy and refreshing flavors of lemon juice. This dish is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and is popular for its simplicity and delicious taste. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the dish:

History:
Adas Bil Hamod has deep roots in Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine, dating back centuries. Lentils have been a dietary staple in the region for a long time due to their affordability, nutritional value, and versatility. The addition of lemon juice not only adds a delightful sourness but also enhances the nutritional profile of the dish.

Components:
The main components of Adas Bil Hamod include:

1. Lentils: Typically, brown or green lentils are used in this recipe.
2. Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is crucial for the dish’s tangy flavor.
3. Onions: Onions add a savory element to the dish.
4. Garlic: Garlic provides a rich and aromatic flavor.
5. Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds depth to the flavor.
6. Spices: Common spices used include cumin, coriander, and salt.
7. Water or Vegetable Broth: Used for cooking the lentils until they’re tender.

Steps to Prepare Adas Bil Hamod:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Adas Bil Hamod:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried brown or green lentils
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt, to taste
• Juice of 2-3 lemons (adjust to taste)
• Water or vegetable broth (about 4 cups)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Lentils: Start by rinsing the lentils thoroughly under cold water and draining them.

2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

3. Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin and coriander, allowing them to toast for a minute or two to release their flavors.

4. Add Lentils and Liquid: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and pour in enough water or vegetable broth to cover the lentils by about 2 inches. Season with salt to taste.

5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed.

6. Lemon Juice: Once the lentils are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and add the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Start with the juice of two lemons and adjust according to your taste preference.

7. Serve: Serve the Adas Bil Hamod hot, garnished with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Adas Bil Hamod typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, including the time for cooking the lentils until they’re tender.

Enjoy your homemade Adas Bil Hamod, a delightful dish that combines the earthiness of lentils with the zesty kick of lemon juice!

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Adas Bil Hamod (Lentils with Lemon Juice):

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for 1 Serving):

• Calories: 250-300 calories
• Protein: 15-18 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 10-12 grams
• Fat: 4-6 grams
• Saturated Fat: 0.5-1 gram
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 400-500 milligrams
• Potassium: 500-600 milligrams
• Vitamin C: 20-30% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Iron: 15-20% DV
• Folate: 25-30% DV

Health Information:

1. High in Protein: Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making Adas Bil Hamod a nutritious option for vegetarians and vegans.

2. Rich in Dietary Fiber: Lentils are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion, helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.

3. Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is low in saturated fat, making it heart-healthy.

4. Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Lentils are rich in essential nutrients like folate, iron, and potassium. Folate is essential for cell division and iron helps transport oxygen in the blood.

5. Vitamin C: The addition of lemon juice provides a boost of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and enhances iron absorption from lentils.

6. Low Cholesterol and Sodium: Adas Bil Hamod is naturally low in cholesterol and sodium, which can be beneficial for heart health.

7. Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly: This dish is suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets and is a great way to incorporate plant-based protein into your meals.

8. Weight Management: The combination of protein and fiber in lentils can help with weight management by promoting fullness and reducing overall calorie intake.

9. Digestive Health: The high fiber content of lentils can aid in digestive health and regular bowel movements.

10. Blood Sugar Control: Lentils have a low glycemic index, which means they have a gradual impact on blood sugar levels, making them suitable for individuals with diabetes.

Remember that the specific nutritional values may vary depending on factors like portion size, the amount of lemon juice used, and any additional ingredients or variations in the recipe. Adjusting the recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences can be done while still enjoying the health benefits of this flavorful dish.