Spicy Red Lentils with Spinach & Orange Juice
Did you know Canada leads the world’s production of lentils? Lentils are a type of legume and are loaded with fibre and protein. Lentils also contain slow-digesting resistant starch that delays the absorption of carbohydrates and help with managing blood sugars. Lentils are a source of prebiotics that promote gut health.
Red or orange lentils are ready in about 10 minutes and cook much faster compared to green lentils. This makes red lentils a perfect ingredient for quick healthy meals.
In this recipe red lentils’ soft texture brings you a comfort food that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy as a main dish, it’s loaded with nutrients, including protein and fibre from lentils.
Spicy Red Lentils with Spinach & Orange Juice
Ingredients
- 4-6 cloves Garlic
- 1/2 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 cup Red lentils
- 1 cup Orange Juice
- 2 cups Broth or Water
- 1 lb Fresh spinach, chopped
- Ground Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large sauce pot over medium-low heat, sauté the garlic, onion and chili flakes in 2 Tbs of the olive oil until fragrant, 1-2 minutes.
- Add the lentils and stir to coat with the oil. Increase the heat to medium-high and stir in the orange juice and broth (or water).
- Simmer until the lentils are tender, about 15 minutes (add more water if necessary).
- Stir in the spinach and continue to simmer until it’s tender, about 2 minutes.
- Season with ground black pepper and a pinch of salt to taste. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper for more spice.
Cook’s Tip
1 pound (450 gram) fresh spinach cooks down to 1.5 cups drained and is about the same as a 300g (10 ounce) frozen package of spinach.
Inspired by Kate Sherwood, Nutrition Action Healthletter