Lentils & Rice Pilaf: Fakorizo

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 7 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup uncooked lentils
• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
• Lemon wedges and olives for serving
• Optional: feta cheese for serving

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the rice under cold water 5-6 times....: Rinse the rice under cold water 5-6 times. Soak in a bowl with cold water for 15 minutes or until ready to use.

2. 2

   Add 1 cup of lentils and the Bay...: Add 1 cup of lentils and the Bay leaf to boiling salted water. Cook for 15 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the water. Drain and set the lentils aside.

3. 3

   Cook the onions with the olive oil over...: Cook the onions with the olive oil over medium heat until soft and golden. 8-10 minutes.

4. 4

   Add the garlic and warm through until fragrant....: Add the garlic and warm through until fragrant. 20-30 seconds.

5. 5

   Add the tomatoes and season with salt and...: Add the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.

6. 6

   Drain the rice and add to the pot...: Drain the rice and add to the pot with the onions. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt (or less).

7. 7

   Add the reserved cup of lentil water and...: Add the reserved cup of lentil water and the lentils. Mix together and bring to a boil.

8. 8

   Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover...: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Simmer for 15 minutes.

9. 9

   Add the chopped parsley and fluff the rice.

10. 10

    Serve with lemon wedges and feta (optional). Enjoy!