If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly, and nutritious meal, this Fried Lentil Rice Recipe is perfect for you!
A unique take on pilau, this dish is vegan, packed with plant-based protein, and easy to make in just one pot.
Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner or a hearty meal for guests, this flavorful rice dish will leave everyone satisfied. Plus, it’s made with ingredients that are likely already in your pantry!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Budget-Friendly:
Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
Nutritious:
Packed with protein-rich lentils and aromatic spices.
Vegan & Meat-Free:
Perfect for plant-based diets.
One-Pot Meal:
Easy cleanup with minimal prep time.
Customizable:
Pair it with kachumbari, guacamole, or cucumber salad for a complete meal.
The Pilau Spice:
If you’re wondering what ingredients go into the pilau spice, find our easy pilau masala recipe without a grinder here. You can also follow the recipe and easily grind them in a grinder if you have one.
The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Fried Lentil Rice (Budget-Friendly & Vegan!)
Equipment
- 1 saucepan and lid
- 1 Wooden Spoon
- 1 knife
- 1 Measuring Cup
- An assortment of measuring spoons and bowls to prepare the ingredients
- 1 Fork
Ingredients
- 3 cups pre-boiled lentils (kamande)
- 3 cups rice (preferably Pishori or long-grain rice)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp. finely grated garlic
- 1 tbsp. finely grated ginger
- 2 tsps pilau masala spice
- 2 tsps. salt (or to taste)
- ⅓ tsp. turmeric powder
- 2 tbsps. tomato paste
- 9 tbsps. cooking oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (dhania)
- 6 cups hot water
Instructions
- Sauté the Onions: In a large saucepan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and stir frequently until golden brown.
- Add Aromatics & Spices: Stir in the grated garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant and the mixture turns a deep golden brown. This helps with enhancing the flavor, giving the rice a delightful smoky pilau taste and color.Add the tomato paste and mix well. Sprinkle in the pilau masala, turmeric, and salt, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Lentils & Rice: Add the pre-boiled lentils and mix thoroughly with the spices. Pour in the washed and drained rice, stirring to coat the grains in the flavorful mixture.
- Cook the Rice: Add 6 cups of hot water, give it a final stir, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Fluff the Rice:After 15 minutes, gently fluff the rice with a fork to evenly distribute the spices and lentils. Cover again and allow it to cook for another 10 minutes or until fully done.
- Garnish & Serve Once cooked, sprinkle fresh cilantro/dhania on top for added flavor. Serve hot with kachumbari, guacamole, or a fresh cucumber salad.
Video
Notes
Pro Tips for the Best Fried Lentil Rice
Use hot water:
This speeds up the cooking process and ensures even texture.Fry the onions well:
Deep golden-brown onions enhance the overall flavor.Simmer on low heat:
This prevents burning and ensures fluffy rice.Fluff with a fork:
Avoid stirring too much, as this can make the rice mushy.Perfect Pairings
Pair this fried lentil rice with: Kachumbari – A simple tomato and onion salad. Guacamole – Creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the spices. Cucumber Salad – Refreshing and light, a great contrast to the warm rice.Final Thoughts
This Fried Lentil Rice Recipe is an easy, nutritious, and delicious meal that fits any budget. Whether you're a homemaker looking for cost-effective meals or simply want a healthy and filling dish, this recipe will become a favorite in your home. If you loved this recipe, check out more budget-friendly meal ideas on our blog or subscribe to our YouTube channel for step-by-step cooking tutorials! What’s your favorite budget-friendly rice dish? Let us know in the comments below! Enhance your hospitality for the glory of God.Recommended:
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