Quinoa is one of those grains some may try to get accustomed to over time. I have! It is a very nutritious packed grain with lots of fiber and protein. The added lentils make it even healthier and more filling. Plus, this is a great dish for those who are vegetarians. This recipe is a go-to one of mind, ever so often.  Try it nuh!

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups quinoa
• 1 cup lentils (I used red lentils).
• 1 cup mixed vegetables
• 4/5 cloves of garlic
• 1 small or medium-sized onion
• 1 stalk of scallion.
• 2 Tbsp tomato sauce.
• Powdered seasonings for an additional boost:
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

• • Soak lentils for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  • Rinse lentils, add fresh water and cook until tender.
  • Throw off water, add a little oil and lemon juice and set aside.
  • To a pot with oil:
    • Add minced onion.
    • Add minced garlic.
    • Add finely chopped scallion/green onion.
    • Stir for a little while.
    • Add mixed vegetables and continue stirring.
    • Add tomato sauce.
    • Add quinoa after rinsing, and without water.
    • Continue to stir, ensuring that all the ingredients are blended.
    • Add water, enough to cover the mixture.
    • Turn down the heat and let cook for about 15-20 minutes/ more.
    • Checking periodically to ensure that the quinoa is cooked.
    • After the quinoa mixture is cooked, add lentils and blend everything.
  • Serve and Enjoy with your preferred meat kind or eat alone.

Notes:

This is really a simple and delicious dish to prepare.  Just ensure you have all your seasonings and spices on hand and are ready to enjoy quinoa with lentils.  I used a frozen packet of mixed vegetables that had- carrots, green peas, string beans and corn.

A tip, cooking quinoa can be a bit challenging at times, as you may add sufficient water at times, but the grains may still taste uncooked. So, do not become frustrated, just add a bit more water if needed, cover it with foil, cover the pot and let it continue to cook on low heat.  Remember to check periodically when cooking.

Here are some dishes you add to your quinoa and lentils:

• Garlic stirred fried string beans with chicken!

• Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken!