Boujee-But-Simple French Lentils
The only thing fancy about this recipe is that it uses French Mirepoix. But first, some nerdy education about why you should be using lentils, which are a powerhouse of nutrition and are known for their numerous health benefits.
They are rich in dietary fiber, making them a valuable component of a well-balanced diet. The fiber in lentils contributes to digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements (you should be pooping 1-2 times daily) and feeding the bacteria in the gut microbiome. Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels, making lentils a particularly beneficial choice for individuals managing diabetes, inflammation, or hormone imbalances. Fun fact: the presence of soluble fiber in lentils aids in lowering cholesterol levels, which promotes heart health and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
But don’t lentils have a lot of carbs? Sure they do, but the cool thing is that those carbs are a resistant starch, which means your body can’t break down the starch very quickly, so it goes into the lower GI tract where it slowly releases into your bloodstream. Resistant starches are also great for your gut health since they feed the microflora in your large intestine.
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But that’s not all: lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making them an essential ingredient for vegetarians, vegans, and people following the Mediterranean Diet (which emphasizes plant proteins and fiber). Protein is crucial for muscle repair, immune function, and overall cellular health. Lentils provide a low-fat, high-fiber, high-protein option, contributing to the fulfillment of daily nutritional requirements without the saturated fats often associated with animal-based proteins.
One of the most compelling reasons to include lentils in your diet is their affordability. As a cost-effective source of protein, lentils offer an excellent option for people looking to maintain a nutritious diet without breaking the bank. Their affordability makes them accessible to a wide range of people. Everyone loves inclusivity (except assholes).
The combination of affordability, high fiber content, and protein-rich composition makes lentils a nutritional juggernaut. Whether you're on a budget or simply aiming for a healthier lifestyle, lentils offer a versatile and wholesome addition to your diet.
OK, enough food bloggery. Here’s an easy-to-make favorite at my house. Never mind the title, they aren’t bougie or fussy. It’s just that Americans think anything French is fancy, thus the name. They are easy to make and absolutely delicious. This dish is great topped with rice (which I like to mix with cooked cauliflower rice for extra veggies)
Ingredients:
1 onion, chopped
1-2 carrots, chopped
3-4 celery stalks, chopped
Olive oil (to sauté things in)
1-1/2 tsp salt
64 oz chicken broth
1 lb. lentils
Lemon (to taste)
Chopped parsley (to taste)
Instructions:
Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil for 5-10 minutes, until slightly translucent.
Stir in the salt, chicken broth, and lentils and simmer for an hour, stirring occasionally.
Right before serving, add the lemon and parsley to brighten things up.
Makes 6-8 servings.