lentils and rice in rice cooker recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
lentils and rice in rice cooker recipe
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The Best lentils and rice in rice cooker recipe

I’ve been making lentils and rice in a rice cooker for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.

I love how the lentils and rice cook together in harmony, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that my family devours in minutes. This recipe is also incredibly versatile – you can add your favorite spices, herbs, or vegetables to give it a unique twist.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly healthy – lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, while rice provides sustained energy. My kids adore this dish, and I often serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

The best part? It’s so easy to make – just toss the ingredients into the rice cooker and let it do its magic.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or dinner solution or just want to impress your guests with a hearty, homemade meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. I’ve even served it at family gatherings and potlucks, where it’s always been a hit.

So go ahead and give this recipe a try – your taste buds (and your belly) will thank you!

Rice Cooker Lentils and Rice

Rice Cooker Lentils and Rice

4.9 from 1666 votes

A simple one-pot meal of lentils and rice cooked together in a rice cooker. This dish is hearty, nutritious, and requires minimal effort for a satisfying dinner.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
3 cups water or vegetable broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnish (optional)

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Lemon wedges

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the brown lentils and white rice separately under cold water until the water runs clear.
2Drain well and set aside.
3This removes excess starch and ensures even cooking.
4Add the olive oil to the rice cooker pot and select the saute function if available, or simply use a non-stick pot on the stovetop.
5Cook the chopped onion over medium heat for 3 minutes until softened and translucent, then stir in the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6Add the rinsed lentils, rice, water or broth, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
7Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
8Close the rice cooker lid and set to the regular white rice cooking cycle.
9The cooker will automatically switch to warm mode when done, which takes about 30 minutes.
10Let it rest on warm for 5 minutes before opening.
11Fluff the lentils and rice with a fork.
12Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
13Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

🔧Equipment

Rice cooker
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Knife
Small bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 300mg🌾Total Carbs: 60g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water. Brown lentils hold their shape well; avoid red lentils as they become mushy. If your rice cooker has a quick cook setting, it may work but check for doneness after the cycle.

Watch Video Of How Rice Cooker Lentils and Rice Works

This lentils and rice recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is so versatile and easy. I often make it for family gatherings since it feeds a crowd without a lot of effort.

It works as a side dish or a main meal, and everyone can customize their bowl with toppings. Storing leftovers is simple: keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

To reheat, just add a splash of water or broth and microwave for a minute or two, or warm it in a skillet. You can also serve it cold as a base for salads.

I love that this dish is forgiving and always turns out delicious, no matter how busy my day is.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Rice Cooker Lentils and Rice

Q: What type of lentils should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use any type of lentil you like. I prefer to use brown or green lentils as they hold their shape well and have a slightly firmer texture than red lentils.

Q: Can I add other spices or herbs to this recipe?

Yes! You can add any spices or herbs you like to give this dish a unique flavor. Some options include cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, or dried thyme.

Q: How long does it take to cook lentils and rice in a rice cooker?

The cooking time will depend on the type of lentils and rice you use as well as the desired consistency of the dish. Generally speaking, lentils will take around 30-40 minutes to cook through while rice takes about 20-30 minutes.

Q: Can I store leftover lentils and rice in the fridge or freezer?

Yes! You can store leftover lentils and rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Is it possible to make this recipe without a rice cooker?

No! While you can cook lentils and rice on the stovetop or in the oven, using a rice cooker makes it so much easier and faster.

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