Description
This Lebanese Lamb Lentils Rice Spinach Recipe combines tender lamb, hearty lentils, fragrant rice, and fresh spinach to create a wholesome and satisfying meal. With bold spices like cinnamon, cumin, and allspice, this dish is a true celebration of Lebanese flavors. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is both nutritious and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- For the Lamb and Lentils:
- 1 lb (450 g) lamb, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 1 cup (200 g) dried lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups (500 ml) water or stock
- For the Rice:
- 1 cup (200 g) basmati rice, rinsed
- 3 cups (750 ml) water or stock
- Pinch of salt
- For the Spinach:
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach, washed
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Optional Toppings:
- Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sear the Lamb:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb on all sides until golden brown, then remove and set aside. - Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. - Add Lentils and Spices:
Sprinkle cinnamon, cumin, and allspice over the aromatics. Stir well. Add the lentils and mix until evenly coated with spices. - Simmer the Lentils:
Pour in the water or stock, cover, and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Cook the Rice:
In a separate saucepan, bring water or stock to a boil. Add the rice and salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork once done. - Sauté the Spinach:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and lemon juice. - Assemble the Dish:
Layer the rice in a serving dish, followed by the lentils and lamb. Top with sautéed spinach. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes to meld the flavors. - Optional Garnish:
Sprinkle with toasted nuts and fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
This Lebanese Lamb Lentils Rice Spinach recipe is ideal for meal prep and can easily be customized for vegetarians by swapping lamb for chickpeas or tofu. Make sure to adjust the water-to-lentil and rice ratios for best results. Garnish with pine nuts and parsley for an authentic touch!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (¼ of the recipe)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 9 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: Lebanese lamb recipe, lentils and rice, spinach dishes, Mediterranean recipes, gluten-free dinner ideas