If you need an affordable, high-protein dinner that holds up for leftovers, lentils are hard to beat. They cost far less than most animal proteins, cook in under an hour, and absorb seasoning deeply enough to taste substantial.
This version uses chorizo-style spice to build warmth and depth without requiring sausage. The lentils stay hearty, the flavor stays bold, and the base is flexible enough to stretch across multiple meals.
Serves: 4–6
Cook Time: 45–55 minutes
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1½ cups brown or green lentils, rinsed
4 cups broth or water
1 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
2 teaspoons Shawhan Farms Traditional Chorizo Seasoning
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, optional
2 cups chopped spinach or kale, optional
1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, or more to taste
For serving, optional
Cooked rice
Plain yogurt or sour cream
Fresh herbs
A sprinkle of Shawhan Farms Italian Herb & Garlic Parmesan
Directions
1. Build the base
Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add onion and carrots and cook 6–8 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and tomato paste and cook another minute.
2. Bloom the seasoning
Add the chorizo seasoning and stir for about 30 seconds. Warming it briefly in oil helps develop the spice before liquid is added.
3. Simmer
Stir in lentils, broth or water, salt, and tomatoes if using. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to low and simmer partially covered for 25–35 minutes, until lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
4. Finish
Add greens if using and cook 2–3 minutes more. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice or vinegar. Taste and adjust salt and acidity so the flavor is balanced and full.
Kitchen Notes
- Brown and green lentils hold their shape best here. Red lentils will cook softer and turn this into more of a stew.
- Lentils are naturally high in plant-based protein and fiber, making them one of the most cost-effective staples in the pantry.
- Serve over rice to stretch the meal further, spoon into warm tortillas, or use leftovers as a filling for baked potatoes.
- A light sprinkle of Shawhan Farms Italian Herb & Garlic Parmesan at the table adds brightness and a savory finish that complements the chorizo spice without competing with it.
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