Looking for a delightful twist on a classic vegetarian dish? Dive into the vibrant flavors of our Brown Lentil Bake with Pineapple! This unique recipe combines the earthiness of brown lentils with the sweet and tangy notes of crushed pineapple, creating a mouthwatering experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends, this bake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Ready to impress your guests and elevate your meal game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown lentils
- 1 can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.
- Rinse the brown lentils under cold water to remove any debris. In a medium saucepan, add the lentils and cover them with about 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.
- While the lentils are cooking, prepare the other ingredients. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the cooked brown lentils, drained crushed pineapple, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly and let it cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the lentil and pineapple mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the lentil mixture to create a crunchy topping.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Serve the Brown Lentil Bake with Pineapple as a hearty main dish or a side, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse brown lentils under cold water before cooking to remove any debris and ensure a clean taste.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce to the lentil mixture before baking.
- Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you want a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats for a crunchy topping.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the lentil mixture before baking for a burst of freshness.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the flavors and textures.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the lentil and pineapple mixture a day in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
