Awesome Spiced Lentils

Lentils are delicious and healthy, with 12-14 grams of protein per cup cooked. I had some on hand today and wanted something to put over rice that was more like curry and less Italian. I invented this recipe, and it turned out so well that I wanted to post it so I can make it again.

Awesome Spiced Lentils

1 cup lentils, washed and picked over (I used tiny brown ones)
1 onion
1 stalk celery, with leaves
2 carrots or a handful of small ones
3-4 garlic cloves
2 T butter or butter substitute
2 large tomatoes
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. paprika
Dash of cayenne

3 Tblsp. finely chopped cilantro


In a food processor or by hand, finely chop onions, celery, carrots, and garlic. Saute in a dash of olive oil for several minutes until softened. In a large saucepan, boil lentils with about an inch of water on top for 10 minutes, then drain. Put lentils back in the pot, adding a cup of water and the sauteed vegetables. Add all the spices up to cayenne and cook for one hour, stirring occasionally or adding water to make sure the mixture isn't sticking. At the end, stir in cilantro and serve over rice.