Spiced Basmati Rice with Lentils and Caramelized On

Name: Spiced Basmati Rice with Lentils and Caramelized Onions
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon butter; 4 cups sliced onions; 1/2 cup dried lentils; 2 1/2 cups water; 3 whole cardamom pods; 2 whole allspice; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup basmati rice* or long-grain white rice; *Available at Indian markets and many supermarkets.

Servings: persons

1
Melt butter in 10-inch-diameter oven-proof nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
2
Add onions and stir 1 minute.
3
Cover and cook until onions are tender, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes.
4
Uncover and saute until onions are deep golden, about 5 minutes longer.
5
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
6
Remove from heat.
7
Spread onions in even layer in same skillet; set aside.
8
Meanwhile, cook lentils in pot of boiling water until almost tender but still firm to bite, about 20 minutes.
9
Drain.
10
Combine 2 1/2 cups water, cardamom, allspice, bay leaf and salt in heavy medium saucepan; bring to boil.
11
Add rice and lentils; bring to boil.
12
Reduce heat to low.
13
Cover and simmer until rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
14
Discard cardamom, allspice and bay leaf.
15
Preheat oven to 400F.
16
Spoon rice mixture atop onions in skillet, pressing with back of spoon to compact rice; smooth top.
17
(Can be made 2 hours ahead.
18
Cool.
19
Cover and let stand at room temperature.)
20
Cover skillet tightly with double layer of foil.
21
Bake rice mixture until heated through, about 35 minutes.
22
Remove foil; let stand 5 minutes.
23
Place plate over skillet; invert skillet, releasing rice and onions onto plate and scraping any onions remaining in skillet onto rice.
24
Spoon rice and onions onto plates and serve.

315

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 tablespoon butter, 4 cups sliced onions, 1/2 cup dried lentils, 2 1/2 cups water, and more.

Yes, Spiced Basmati Rice with Lentils and Caramelized Onions falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Spiced Basmati Rice with Lentils and Caramelized Onions

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions