Delicious and hearty recipe for Lentils with Chorizo
Are you looking for a hearty and savory meal that will warm you up from the inside out? Then you’re in the right place! Introducing my Lentils with Chorizo Sausage Recipe, a dish that will satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.
As a cuisine connoisseur, I understand the importance of filling your body with wholesome ingredients that taste great. That’s why I’ve created this recipe using only the finest ingredients, such as brown lentils, Spanish chorizo sausage, garlic cloves, carrots, and onions.
This lentil stew is based on a traditional Spanish recipe and has been adapted to perfection by award-winning chef Allegra McEvedy. It’s perfect for those cold winter nights when you crave something filling and warming.
Not only is this dish flavorful and satisfying, but it’s also simple to make even if you’re not an experienced home cook. All you need is a large pot, some basic ingredients, and my clear step-by-step instructions to help guide you along the way.
Trust me; once you taste this lentil soup with chorizo sausage, it’ll become a staple in your household. So what are you waiting for? Grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready for a magical dish! This Lentils with Chorizo Sausage recipe is the ultimate comfort food you never knew you needed. With its rich flavor, hearty texture, and smoky aroma, it will warm your soul and take your taste buds on a journey to paradise.
But hold on, there’s more! This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, while chorizo sausage adds a touch of spiciness and healthy fats. Combined with other veggies like carrots, onions, and bell peppers, this dish becomes a power-packed meal that will keep you energized all day long.
And let’s not forget the simplicity of this recipe. With just a few easy-to-find ingredients and some basic kitchen skills, you can whip up a mouth-watering lentil stew that will impress your family and guests.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dinner or planning a cozy night in with friends, this Lentils with Chorizo Sausage recipe is the perfect choice. So why not give it a try? You won’t regret it!
Ingredient List
Before getting started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients for this delicious lentils with chorizo sausage recipe. You don’t want to be caught off guard midway through the cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
Lentils and Vegetables
- 1 pound (16 oz) brown lentils.
- 1 large onion, diced.
- 1 carrot, diced.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced.
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped.
- 1 bay leaf.
Chorizo Sausage
- 12 oz Spanish chorizo sausage, chopped.
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil.
Spices
- 1 tsp paprika.
- Salt to taste.
Cold Water
- The amount of cold water you use will depend on the size of your pot. As a rule of thumb, the lentils should be covered by at least three inches of water.
The Recipe How-To
Before we start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients and prepare them properly. First, cut the chorizo sausage into small pieces and set it aside. Then, chop one onion finely and mince four garlic cloves. Finally, dice one carrot and one red bell pepper into small pieces.
Cooking Time
In a large pot or pan, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When warm, add the chopped onion and minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook until they become translucent – this should take about 5 minutes.
Then, add the diced carrot, diced red bell pepper, and chorizo sausage pieces to the pot. Cook them together for around 10 minutes until everything is lightly browned.
Adding The Lentils
Next, add one pound of dry brown lentils to the pot along with six cups of cold water. Also drop in one bay leaf and one teaspoon of paprika. Bring everything to a simmer over medium heat.
Once bubbles start appearing, reduce heat to low so that the lentil stew can simmer gently. Remember to stir occasionally so that nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. This should continue for about 30-40 minutes until the lentils are soft but not mushy.
Finishing Touches
When the lentils are cooked through, remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard it. Take out a cupful of cooked lentils before adding salt in desired amount to taste. Add back those cupfuls of lentils back into the pot after added salt and stir well.
Finally, serve hot with a few drops of extra virgin olive oil drizzled on top!
Substitutions and Variations
Listen up, my fellow epicurean adventurers! As much as I love the original recipe, there are always ways to experiment with your dishes and make it your own. So, here are a few substitutions and variations to consider for the Lentils With Chorizo Sausage Recipe.
Firstly, for those of you who prefer a milder version of this dish, you can try swapping out the Spanish chorizo sausage for Italian sausage instead. It adds a more delicate flavor profile that still complements the lentils beautifully.
If you’re feeling extra peppy and adventurous, throw in some additional vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes or butternut squash for an extra depth of flavor. You can also mix it up with different types of lentils such as Puy lentils, green or red lentils. This twist will change up the texture and taste of the dish altogether.
For all my vegetarian friends out there, I got you covered. Just omit the chorizo sausage from the recipe and let your creativity roam free. Adding smoked paprika while cooking your vegetables will give it a slightly smoky flavor similar to chorizo.
Another great twist to try out is by adding some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for subtle refreshing notes that’ll elevate your tastebuds to whole new levels.
Lastly, if you’re craving something different than rice as a side dish, why not try quinoa instead? The nutty flavor and crunchy texture add a delightful contrast to soft and creamy lentil soup.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong way when it comes to cooking — experiment until you find what tickles your fancy. Bon Appetit!
Serving and Pairing
Ah, the moment has arrived! It’s time to serve up your delectable lentils with chorizo sausage stew, and relish in the satisfaction of a scrumptious meal. But what should you pair it with?
First and foremost, let’s talk about the star of the show – the lentils with chorizo sausage. Now, you could certainly enjoy this hearty stew all on its own, but I highly recommend serving it alongside some crusty bread or toasted sourdough slices to mop up all those delicious juices.
But if you want to make your meal more substantial, you can serve it with some fluffy white rice or a side salad tossed with fresh greens, juicy cherry tomatoes and sliced cucumber. The coolness of the salad will play off the warming spices in the stew perfectly.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not whip up a quick batch of guacamole and tortilla chips for some added crunch? The creamy texture of the guacamole pairs brilliantly with the spicy and savory flavors of the lentil chorizo soup.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a drink pairing that will balance out the zesty paprika and spicy kick provided by the chorizo sausage, I suggest reaching for a red wine. A bold Rioja or Tempranillo would be perfect as they both have enough heft to stand up to the powerful flavors without overpowering them.
In any case, this Spanish-inspired lentil with chorizo stew recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table, so let your imagination run wild when thinking about what sides and drinks to serve alongside it!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Ah, the joys of leftovers! This lentil and chorizo stew recipe is perfect for those who like to plan ahead, as it stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer. In fact, I think that this stew actually tastes even better after a day or two of sitting.
If you want to make the dish ahead of time, simply let it cool down completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be stored for up to five days in there. Alternatively, you could freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to defrost it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
When reheating the stew, do so slowly over low heat on the stovetop. Slowly warming up the lentils and chorizo allows them to heat through evenly without burning or becoming rubbery.
This lentil and chorizo stew is great to have on hand during busy weekdays when cooking from scratch may not be feasible. You can quickly reheat it and enjoy it for a comforting meal. Or you could also use any leftovers to make other dishes such as chorizo rice or even a spicy lentil casserole.
Overall, this recipe is perfect for those who love a quick and easy meal that is packed with flavor and nutrition. Even better, this dish can be made ahead, stored for later, and reheated easily – ideal for those who are too busy to cook meals from scratch every day!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to cooking lentils with chorizo sausage, there are a few tips that can help ensure the perfect outcome. Here are some tips to keep in mind when making your next batch of lentil stew with chorizo.
Firstly, make sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly in cold water before cooking. This will remove any dirt or debris that may be present, and it will also prevent the lentils from becoming too starchy or clumpy during the cooking process.
Secondly, don’t forget about the importance of seasoning. While the chorizo sausage will provide plenty of flavor, it’s important to add additional seasonings such as bay leaf, paprika, and garlic cloves to really enhance the dish. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your own preference.
Next, pay attention to the texture of the lentils as they cook. Be sure not to overcook them as they can quickly become mushy and lose their shape. Keep an eye on them by checking them frequently and stirring occasionally as needed.
Fourthly, consider using a high-quality Spanish chorizo sausage for the best flavor. The dry-cured sausage will bring a rich depth of flavor that other varieties may lack.
Additionally, sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil before adding the lentils can add even more flavor and depth to the dish. This extra step is worth considering if you have time.
Furthermore, if you’re short on time or need to prep ahead of time, consider cooking your lentils and Chorizo sausage separately first and then combining them in a pot later on. This helps maintain individual textures and allows you more control over each separate preparation.
Finally, last but not least, when serving your lentil stew with chorizo sausage consider garnishing it with fresh cilantro or parsley for added color and freshness. And don’t forget some crusty bread or rice on the side for great tangy flavor pairings.
These tips will surely elevate any rendition of this meal from good to exceptional.
FAQ
But wait, there’s more! We know that as a home cook, you may have additional questions or concerns about this lentils with chorizo sausage recipe. That’s why we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to help guide you through any hurdles you might come across while preparing this delicious dish. So, let’s dive in and address some of those queries!
Can you eat lentils and meat together?
Lentils are a nutrient-packed food that offers a variety of benefits to our health. They contain high levels of protein, fiber, and complex carbs, making them a great option for those seeking a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, lentils are rich in essential nutrients like iron, potassium, manganese, and folate. To take advantage of the best of both worlds, new studies suggest that combining lentils and beef in meals can create a delicious, healthy, and satisfying dish.
What meat goes with lentils?
One way to give lentils a boost in flavor is to combine them with rich fats like duck or bacon. This complements the mild taste of the legume and is a great option for those who still include meat in their diet. Lentils are perfect for meatless dishes or for adding heartiness to stews, making them a versatile pantry staple that deserves to be utilized during the winter season.
What’s the best way to cook chorizo sausage?
When preparing chorizo, heat a non-stick frying pan or cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Use a spatula and break it up into bite-sized pieces as needed for your recipe. The chorizo will generally take between 6-9 minutes to cook thoroughly.
What is good with chorizo?
When it comes to enhancing the flavors of chorizo, bell peppers and onions are among the top veggies to consider. These two ingredients are frequently used in recipes featuring chorizo due to their ability to complement the distinct taste of this meat. In addition to these common vegetables, there are other options that can make a delicious pairing with chorizo such as corn, broccoli, and kale, despite being less conventional.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that is easy and quick to make, this lentil with chorizo sausage recipe is the perfect option for you. The combination of the savory chorizo sausage and the nutty flavor of the brown lentils creates a delicious and satisfying dish that will satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends for dinner, this recipe is sure to impress everyone. It’s versatile enough to be served on its own or paired with a side of rice or bread. Plus, it’s packed with healthy ingredients like lentils, carrots and onions, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
So give this recipe a try and experience the authentic Spanish flavors of chorizo lentil stew right in your home. Trust me, once you taste it, you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds.
Lentils With Chorizo Sausage Recipe
Ingredients
- 225 g brown lentils
- 100 g chorizo sausage
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 4 garlic cloves
- 3/4 liter cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- salt
Instructions
- Place lentils in pressure-cooker. Peel carrot, onion and garlic cloves. Add vegetables, whole, to pressure-cooker along with bay leaf.
- Cut chorizo into four pieces and add to cooker. Add cold water, salt to taste and paprika, bring to boil, uncovered.
- When it starts to boil, place pressure-cooker cover and seal. When the pressure-indicator rises let cook 8 minutes.
- Turn off heat, carefully move handle to safe position to eliminate pressure. Wait for all steam to clear and open.
- Discard bay leaf. Transfer onion, carrot and garlic to hand-blender receptacle and blend with hand blender. Return pureed vegetables to lentils, mix well and serve.
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Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.