If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, flavorful, and hearty dish that will steal your heart (and your taste buds!), look no further than these Marry Me Lentils. This dish is all about tender lentils simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce, with a medley of spices that’ll have you falling in love with every bite. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you say, “I could eat this every day” and you might just want to! Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Lentils

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or sharing a comforting dish with loved ones, Marry Me Lentils are sure to impress. Here’s why they’re a favorite:

Flavorful: These lentils are cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce that gives them incredible depth of flavor. Each bite is a warm hug for your taste buds.

Hearty and Filling: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, these lentils are a satisfying, wholesome meal that’ll keep you full for hours.

One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, even on busy nights.

Vegan and Gluten-Free: A perfect option for anyone with dietary restrictions, these lentils are naturally vegan and gluten-free, without sacrificing flavor.

Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or even some greens to make this dish your own. You can easily modify the spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients in Marry Me Lentils

This dish uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something magical. Here’s what you’ll need:

Lentils: Brown or green lentils are the best choice for this recipe, as they hold their shape well and cook up tender but not mushy.

Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes bring a rich, tangy base to the dish. You can use fresh tomatoes or canned, depending on what you have on hand.

Onion & Garlic: These two staples add layers of savory flavor and depth to the lentils, infusing the dish with aromatic goodness.

Spices: A mix of cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder gives the dish a warm, comforting, and slightly smoky flavor. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili powder.

Vegetable Broth: For extra flavor and richness, vegetable broth is the perfect base for simmering the lentils.

Olive Oil: A little olive oil for sautéing the onions and garlic adds richness and helps build the base flavors.

Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds a burst of brightness and a touch of herbaceous flavor at the end, making this dish even more delicious.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to make these delightful Marry Me Lentils:

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Spices: Stir in the cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder. Let the spices cook for about 1-2 minutes to bloom and release their flavor.

Add the Tomatoes and Lentils: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and lentils to the pot, stirring to combine everything. The tomatoes will add moisture to the dish and help the lentils cook perfectly.

Add the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the lentils are covered by the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.

Final Touches: Once the lentils are cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you like, stir in some fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Marry Me Lentils warm, either on their own or over rice, quinoa, or with a side of flatbread. They’re perfect as a main dish or a hearty side.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Marry Me Lentils

These Marry Me Lentils are perfect on their own, but here are a few ways to take them to the next level:

Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous for a complete, hearty meal.
Pair them with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.
Top them with a dollop of vegan yogurt or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
For added flavor, sauté the onions and garlic in a little more olive oil or coconut oil to enhance the richness of the dish.
You can add greens like spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for extra nutrients and color.
Make sure to check the lentils for doneness as cooking times can vary slightly depending on the type of lentils used.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?
While fresh lentils cook best, you can use canned lentils if you’re short on time. Just rinse them well and add them after the tomatoes and spices, then simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

2. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! If you like heat, add more chili powder or even some red pepper flakes to increase the spice level.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots, bell peppers, spinach, or any vegetables you like. Just add them after the onions and garlic to sauté.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Marry Me Lentils taste even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze Marry Me Lentils?
Yes, this dish freezes wonderfully. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

6. Can I make this dish without the broth?
You can replace the broth with water, but the broth adds a depth of flavor. If you use water, consider adding more spices or seasoning to boost the taste.

7. Can I use red lentils for this recipe?
You can use red lentils, but they cook faster and will break down more easily, resulting in a softer, more stew-like texture. It’s still delicious!

8. How can I make this dish even creamier?
Stir in a little coconut milk or cashew cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.

9. Can I add some protein to this dish?
Yes! Add chickpeas, tofu, or even some grilled chicken for extra protein. You can also mix in some cooked quinoa for a protein boost.

10. Can I serve Marry Me Lentils with bread?
Yes! These lentils are perfect for scooping up with warm flatbread or pita. Serve with naan for an authentic touch.

Conclusion

Marry Me Lentils are the perfect combination of comfort and flavor, with hearty lentils cooked in a spiced tomato sauce that’s both filling and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or pairing it with other sides, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try you’ll see why they’re called “Marry Me” lentils!

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