Spiced Lentil and Brown Rice Bowl Recipe

There’s something utterly heartwarming about gathering around a wholesome meal that not only delights the taste buds but also nurtures the soul. Our Spiced Lentil and Brown Rice Bowl Recipe is just that – a dish that combines comfort and nutrition with an enticing array of flavors. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying lunch, drawing inspiration from Mediterranean spices to create a meal that’s both familiar and exciting. Imagine the fragrant aroma of cumin and coriander wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the earthy tones of lentils and the nutty base of brown rice, all vibrant and balanced by the cool crunch of cucumber and the creamy tang of yogurt dressing. It’s a beautiful symphony of flavors that will have your family asking for seconds and keep your heart warm with pride.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4
• Skill Level: Easy

• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 3 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

1. Rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, add the brown rice and 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 40-45 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. While the rice is cooking, place the lentils in another pot with the remaining water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid.
3. In a small bowl, mix the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper together. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spices and toast for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and mix well, ensuring the lentils are evenly coated with the spices. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice to create the dressing. Season with salt to taste.
6. To assemble, divide the cooked brown rice among four bowls. Top with the spiced lentils and arrange the cucumber slices on top. Drizzle each bowl with the yogurt dressing and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

• Variations: Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Beginner Tip: Prepare the rice and lentils ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
• Substitutions: Substitute Greek yogurt for plain yogurt if you prefer a thicker consistency, or use quinoa instead of brown rice for a different texture.

• A fresh side salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives complements this bowl perfectly.
• Pair with a refreshing drink like mint lemonade or iced green tea.

At Zynahz, we believe that every meal is an opportunity to create joy and lasting memories in the kitchen. Our Spiced Lentil and Brown Rice Bowl Recipe is a testament to this ethos, blending flavors and family moments into a single dish. We encourage you to try this recipe at home, share your experiences with us, and spread the warmth and goodness with your loved ones. Follow us on social media, sign up for our newsletter for more inspiring recipes, and continue to explore the creative possibilities with Zynahz. Here’s to many more heartwarming meals together!