Tropical Oaxacan Lentils with Plantain and Pineapple

Lenten Lentils, Oaxacan-Style

Description

Embark on a culinary adventure with these sumptuous Lenten Lentils, a traditional Oaxacan dish brimming with tropical flavors. This dish is a vibrant fusion of sweet and savory elements, where luscious lentils are paired with the fruity sweetness of pineapple and plantain, spiced with aromatic cloves and allspice. Infused with garlic for an extra kick, this hearty meal offers a delightful taste of Mexican cuisine. Garnished with crispy fried plantain slices, it’s a feast for the senses.

Recipe Details

• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Category: One Dish Meal
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup dried lentils
• 4 cups water
• 2 cloves garlic, halved
• 1/2 medium white onion, chopped
• 1 plantain, peeled and sliced
• 1 can (about 8 ounces) unsweetened pineapple slices, drained and chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• Salt, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for sautéing
• Additional vegetable or chicken broth, if needed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lentils:

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   • In a large pot, combine the dried lentils and water. Bring to a boil. Add 2 halved garlic cloves and 1/2 of the white onion. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the lentils simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender yet firm.
   • Once cooked, drain the lentils, reserving some of the cooking liquid. Discard the garlic cloves but leave the onion in the pot. Season the lentils with salt.

2. Cook the Aromatics:

   • In a large saucepan, heat a splash of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the remaining chopped white onion and the 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

3. Incorporate Tropical Flavors:

   • To the saucepan, add the plantain slices, chopped pineapple, and tomatoes. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the plantain is tender and has a slightly caramelized edge, which should take about 15 to 25 minutes.

4. Combine and Simmer:

   • Add the cooked lentils to the saucepan along with some of the reserved lentil cooking liquid. Stir well to combine. Cook the mixture until it thickens slightly, adding more of the reserved cooking liquid or additional vegetable or chicken broth if needed to keep the lentils moist.

5. Season and Serve:

   • Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste, and stir in the ground cloves and allspice for that characteristic Oaxacan flavor.
   • Serve the lentils hot, garnished with crispy fried plantain slices for added texture and a final touch of tropical sweetness.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 277.4
• Fat: 4.2 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.6 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 17 mg
• Carbohydrates: 52.1 g
• Fiber: 14.4 g
• Sugar: 17.8 g
• Protein: 11.3 g

Enjoy this flavorful and healthy dish that’s not only satisfying but also a unique take on traditional Mexican cuisine. With its blend of tropical fruits and spices, Lenten Lentils, Oaxacan-Style is sure to be a hit at your next meal! 🌴🍍🍌🌶️