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Cheap Meal Prep With Lentils And Rice High Protein Under $10

Cheap Meal Prep With Lentils And Rice High Protein Under $10


  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (Basmati or Jasmine works best), rinsed
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or water with a bouillon cube)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: Squeeze of lemon juice and fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Begin by rinsing your lentils and rice separately under cold water until the water runs clear. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until they become translucent and slightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika. Toast the spices with the onions for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  2. Add the rinsed lentils, rinsed rice, and 4 cups of vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine and scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. Do not peek! Keeping the steam trapped is essential for fluffy rice and perfectly cooked lentils.
  3. After the time is up, check to see if the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Remove the lid and fluff the mixture gently with a fork. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Divide the mixture evenly into four meal prep containers. If using, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over each portion to brighten the flavors.
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes