Spiced Lentil and Carrot Comfort Bowl

A warm, hearty bowl of spiced lentils and carrots, perfect for cold days. The earthy cumin complements the sweet carrots, creating a nourishing and satisfying single-serving meal.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 30 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by heating the olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced carrots. Sauté the carrots, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until they start to soften and the edges appear slightly golden. This caramelization enhances their natural sweetness, providing a deeper flavor to the dish.
2. 2.
   Add the ground cumin to the pot with the carrots. Stir well to coat the carrots with the spice. Toast the cumin in the oil for about 1 minute or until fragrant. This step releases the essential oils of the spice, giving the dish a more robust flavor and aroma.
3. 3.
   Pour in the rinsed red lentils, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir everything together to combine, ensuring the lentils are evenly distributed in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and allow the lentils to cook for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the lentils are soft and have absorbed most of the broth, with a creamy texture forming. The carrots should be tender at this point.
5. 5.
   Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding salt or more cumin to suit your preference. Serve the spiced lentil and carrot mixture hot in a bowl, enjoying the comforting blend of flavors and warming spices. If the dish seems too thick, you can add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency. For added richness, drizzle a bit of olive oil on top before serving.