Are you ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure? This Indian-inspired Green Beans with Fennel Seeds Lentils recipe is about to become your new obsession! Imagine a dish that combines the crisp freshness of green beans, the earthy richness of red lentils, and the aromatic punch of fennel seeds - all dancing together in perfect harmony. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a meal that's not just food, but a sensory experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant kitchens of India.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Green beans, trimmed
- Red lentils
- Fennel seeds
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Ginger, grated
- Turmeric powder
- Salt
- Oil
Instructions
- Wash and trim the green beans, cutting them into 1-inch pieces. Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add fennel seeds and let them sizzle and become fragrant for about 30 seconds.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and light golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
- Sprinkle turmeric powder and salt, mixing well to coat the onion mixture evenly.
- Add rinsed red lentils and green beans to the pan, stirring to combine with the spiced onion base.
- Pour in enough water to just cover the vegetables and lentils, about 1-
- 5 cups.
- Cover the pan and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check that lentils are soft and green beans are tender but still have a slight crunch. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Rinse your red lentils thoroughly to remove excess starch and ensure a cleaner, more refined texture.
- Toast the fennel seeds briefly to release their maximum flavor - those 30 seconds make all the difference!
- Use medium-low heat to prevent burning and allow the spices to develop a rich, deep flavor profile.
- Don't overcook the green beans - they should retain a slight crunch for the best texture and nutritional value.
- For extra depth, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the entire dish.
- If you want a creamier consistency, you can mash some of the lentils towards the end of cooking.
- Fresh cilantro as a garnish is optional but highly recommended for an authentic touch of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
