One-Pot Spiced Lentil and Rice Pilaf

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-27 · Updated 2026-04-27

A comforting one-pot pilaf combining aromatic spices with tender lentils and fluffy rice for a satisfying vegetarian meal. This middle eastern-inspired vegan (vegetarian, gluten free) ready in about 40 minutes pairs basmati rice, brown lentils, rinsed, vegetable broth for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 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.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1/2 cup brown lentils, rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Step 2: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute until the spices bloom and become aromatic.
3. Step 3: Add 1 cup basmati rice and 1/2 cup rinsed brown lentils to the pot, stirring to coat them in the spices and oil.
4. Step 4: Pour in 3 cups vegetable broth, then season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice and lentils are tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro before serving.