Menestra De Lentejas - (Lentil Stew)

lentils

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: dried split peas

Green lentils maintain texture, while split peas are often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil offers similar health benefits with a different flavor.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Homemade broth is fresher, while seasoned water is budget-friendly.

bay leaves

💰Cheaper: dried thyme

Thyme provides a similar aromatic flavor.

Welcome viewers and introduce the dish as an Ecuadorian lentil stew.

Mention that the recipe will be adapted due to budget constraints.

State the ingredients needed: 1 cup of lentils, garlic, bacon, tomatoes, onion, cilantro, salt, pepper, cumin, and optional spices.

Begin by washing the fruits and vegetables, then peeling the garlic and onion.

Dice the onion into small pieces, being careful with the knife.

Chop the garlic, using the entire bulb instead of just three cloves as suggested.

Prepare the cilantro by chopping about half a cup.

Quarter the tomatoes and set them aside.

Cut the bacon into small pieces using kitchen scissors and place them in a medium pot over medium heat.

Cook the bacon until crispy, then rinse the lentils under cold water and drain them.

Add the garlic and onion to the pot with the bacon, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and cook until everything is fragrant and the tomatoes have broken down.

Stir in the chopped cilantro, rinsed lentils, and all the dry spices including cumin, salt, and pepper.

Mix everything well and prepare to add liquid to the pot.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary