Coconut Lentils
In Brazil, many people eat a plate of lentils at New Year’s dinner to invite prosperity during the year to come. Since lentils look like small coins, and they almost double in size after they’re cooked, Brazilians say they attract fortune and wealth.
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
In Brazil, many people eat a plate of lentils at New Year’s dinner to invite prosperity during the year to come. Since lentils look like small coins, and they almost double in size after they’re cooked, Brazilians say they attract fortune and wealth.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 Tbs. coconut oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (11/2 cups)
- 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
- 1/4 tsp. ground allspice
- 2 Tbs. tomato paste
- 1 cup French green lentils
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 2 tsp. lime juice
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange coconut flakes on baking sheet, and toast 4 to 6 minutes, or until golden. Set aside.
2. Heat coconut oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until onion has softened. Stir in ginger, turmeric, and allspice, and sauté 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste, and sauté 30 seconds. Add 1 cup water to pan, and scrape up any browned bits.
3. Add lentils, raisins, and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 30 minutes. Uncover, and simmer 10 to 15 minutes more, or until lentils are tender. Stir in lime juice, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Sprinkle each serving with 2 tsp. toasted coconut.
Nutrition Information
- Calories 189
- Carbohydrate Content 30 g
- Cholesterol Content 0 mg
- Fat Content 6 g
- Fiber Content 6 g
- Protein Content 8 g
- Saturated Fat Content 4 g
- Sodium Content 10 mg
- Sugar Content 7 g