Braised Lentils with Saffron

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this aromatic Braised Lentils with Saffron recipe, a flavorful fusion of earthy lentils and the rich, floral essence of saffron. Simmered with a medley of sautéed vegetables, garlic, and fragrant thyme, the lentils absorb the golden saffron-infused broth for a luxurious depth of flavor. A splash of lemon juice adds brightness, while a garnish of fresh parsley lends a pop of freshness to this hearty, vegetarian dish. Perfect as a satisfying main course or a versatile side, this easy-to-make meal is packed with plant-based protein and ready in under an hour. Ideal for those seeking healthy comfort food with a touch of elegance!

Nutriscore Rating: 80/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils
• 1 pinch saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons boiling water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion
• 1 medium carrot
• 1 celery stalk
• 2 garlic cloves
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.

Step 2

In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in the boiling water and allow to steep for at least 5 minutes.

Step 3

Dice the onion, carrot, and celery into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.

Step 4

Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 5

Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 6

Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, tomato paste, and the saffron water (including the threads). Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the lentils cook gently for 30-35 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add a splash of water or broth if the mixture becomes too dry.

Step 8

Once the lentils are tender, remove the bay leaf. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 9

Serve the braised lentils warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1162.6 grams (1162.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	824

Total Fat 35.30g	45%
Saturated Fat 5.80g	29%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4115mg	179%
Total Carbohydrate 100.80g	37%
Dietary Fiber 28.60g	102%
Total Sugars 20.00g
Protein 32.70g	65%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 207mg	16%
Iron 11mg	62%
Potassium 2418mg	51%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.3%

Protein: 15.4%

Carbs: 47.3%