| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 10g | 2g | 58g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 15g | 19g | 0.9g |
Why I Love Colombian Lentils with Plantain
As a food connoisseur with a diverse background, I’ve always been drawn to recipes that encapsulate my passion for worldly cuisine. One of these gems is the Colombian recipe, Lentils with Plantain. The combination of hearty lentils and sweet, caramelized plantain with aromatic spices creates an irresistible blend of flavors that dance on your palate. This beautiful dish is not just a feast for the stomach, but also for the eyes, promising you a sense of warmth, comfort and a hint of exotic.
More than a Recipe, it’s a Journey
In every bite, you’re transported to the vibrant Colombian streets, with its bustling markets, charismatic people, and a rich culinary history. This dish was partly inspired by the incredible Chef Juan Felipe, a renowned Colombian chef known for his original recipes combining traditional Colombian ingredients with modern techniques. I’ve always admired his ability to evoke a strong sense of place and memory through his creations, and I attempt to do the same with my Lentils with Plantain recipe.
An Artful Melody of Flavors
Growing up in Miami, with Cuban and Spanish roots, I’ve immersed myself in a myriad of gastronomic experiences. This has significantly informed my cooking style, with the Lentils with Plantain echoing the intricacies of Spanish tapas and the vibrant essence of Caribbean cuisine. Lentils, coupled with the bold spices and the exotic sweetness of ripe plantains, the dish delivers a symphony of flavors that perfectly balance both comfort and complexity.
The Lentils with Plantain is an ideal pairing for a wide range of other courses. From roasted meats, like the succulent Roast Pork Loin, to something lighter like a fresh salad, this dish adds a hearty and satisfying component to any meal.
In essence, my love for this recipe goes far beyond its delightful taste. It signifies a bridge connecting cultures, a delicacy that reflects my own heritage, and a testament to my belief in the power of food as a language of love and unity.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups lentils
- 2 plantains, peeled and sliced
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cube chicken bouillon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups water
- Salt to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Method
Step One
Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water. Set them aside for later use.
Step Two
Peel and slice the plantains into thin slices. Keep them aside for later.
Step Three
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it is crisp and browned.
Step Four
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped carrot, chopped red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté these ingredients until they are soft.
Step Five
Add the sliced plantains to the pot. Cook until they are soft and starting to brown.
Step Six
Add the lentils, chicken bouillon, ground cumin, black pepper, and water to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step Seven
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour. Check occasionally and stir if needed to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step Eight
After 1 hour, taste the lentils and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. Continue cooking until the lentils are tender and the water has reduced to your desired consistency.
Step Nine
Serve the lentils hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your Lentils with Plantain!
