Indian Red Lentils and Rice

Indian Red Lentils and Rice, originally uploaded by Lakenvelder.

This is a very simple easy and healthy meatless recipe. I used only one large onion and only one chile so it would not be too spicy. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. A Raita would be a great addition to have with this recipe.

Ingredients:
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 mediun onions, thinly sliced
5 whole black peppercorns
5 cardamon pods
5 whole cloves
2 dried red chiles
1 cinnamon stick
1 cup jasmine or other long-grained rice
1 cups red lentils
3 1/2 cups hot water
salt

In a medium saucepan heat the oil. Add the sliced onion and cook over high heat until brown, stirring occasionally. This should take about 10 minutes.

Add the peppercorns,cardamom, cloves and chilies and cinnamom stick to the onions in the saucepan and cook for 1 more minute. Stir in the rice. lentils, water and 2 teaspoons of salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to moderately low and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice and lentils are tender.