Economical Lentil & Rice Bowl

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-06 · Updated 2026-04-06

A hearty, protein-rich bowl featuring earthy lentils and fluffy rice, seasoned with simple spices for a satisfying weeknight dinner. This Indian-inspired vegetarian recipe (high-protein), ready in about 45 minutes, pairs brown lentils, water, white rice for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 395 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 cup, rinsed brown lentils
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 cup, cooked and cooled white rice
• 1 medium, finely chopped (1 cup) onion
• 2 cloves, minced garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium pot, combine 1 cup rinsed brown lentils and 1 1/2 cups water; bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Step 2: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender and most liquid is absorbed.
3. Step 3: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; add 1 cup finely chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened and golden.
4. Step 4: Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Step 5: Stir in 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp ground turmeric, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
6. Step 6: Add 1/2 cup vegetable broth and the cooked lentils (with any remaining liquid) to the skillet; stir to combine and simmer for 2 minutes.
7. Step 7: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
8. Step 8: Divide 1 cup cooled cooked rice among 4 bowls, top with lentil mixture, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.