Plov with Lentils, a vegan take on the traditional Turkmen pilaf.

Here’s a recipe for Plov with Lentils, a vegan take on the traditional Turkmen pilaf. This hearty and flavorful dish features lentils, carrots, and aromatic spices, making it a comforting one-pot meal. 🌿✨

Plov with Lentils (Turkmen Pilaf)

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 1½ cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 15 minutes
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, julienned or diced
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled and left whole
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups vegetable broth or water

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

1. In a medium pot, combine lentils and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and sauté until golden, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the carrots and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Spices and Garlic

1. Add the whole garlic cloves, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables in the spices.

Step 4: Layer the Rice and Lentils

1. Spread the cooked lentils over the sautéed vegetables in an even layer.
2. Drain the soaked rice and layer it evenly over the lentils. Do not stir.

Step 5: Cook the Plov

1. Pour the vegetable broth or water gently over the rice. The liquid should cover the rice by about 1 inch.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low. Cover tightly with a lid and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

1. Turn off the heat and let the plov sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
2. Gently fluff the rice with a fork, mixing the layers together.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips & Variations:

• Add dried fruit: Stir in raisins or dried apricots for a touch of sweetness.
• Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Nutty addition: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts on top for extra texture.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

This Plov with Lentils recipe offers a delicious vegan twist on a classic Turkmen dish, combining earthy lentils with fragrant spices and tender rice. Perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal! 🌿✨