Caribbean Stewed Lentils Recipes

CARIBBEAN STEWED LENTILS

Steps:

• For bagged lentils, follow the preparation listed on the bag, soaking if necessary. If using dried lentils, make sure to sift through them removing any debris and then soak in a bowl with water for a few hours or overnight.
• When the lentils are prepped, add them to a pot with enough water to cover them by about 2 inches.
• Add the garlic cloves (whole), hot pepper (whole), salt, black pepper, thyme and bouillon to the lentils and water, and heat to medium-high heat.
• Bring this to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer for about 45 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
• In another pot, heat the oil at medium heat and saute the sliced onions until they are golden at the edges.
• Then gently (we're adding liquid to hot oil) add the cooked lentils to the pot (pour in everything).
• With a whisk or cooking spoon, stir to break down some of the lentils to thicken the consistency and create more of a sauce.
• Add the scallions, cilantro and butter and stir.
• Allow this to cook for about 20 more minutes or until the desired consistency is reached. I prefer mine to be like a thick soup.
• Don't forget to fish out the twig from the thyme before serving and enjoy.

JAMAICAN LENTIL STEW WITH COCONUT

Steps:

• Make a thick paste by mashing ginger and garlic together using a pestle and mortar or a small bowl and the heel of a wooden spoon.
• Heat vegetable oil over medium heat in a large saucepan, add the onion and saute until transparent.
• Add the garlic ginger paste and saute another 2 minutes until fragrant; lower heat and stir constantly to avoid burning the paste.
• Add the spices and saute for a minute more.
• Stir in the coconut milk, stock, lentils, sweet potato and pumpkin puree.
• Simmer over medium - low heat for 40 - 50 minutes or until sweet potato is soft and almost melting into the stew. Be sure to stir occasionaly.
• Before serving, stir in the red curry paste if you are using it or adjust seasoning with black pepper.
• NOTE: The stew has a creamy texture and is thick with lentils, sweet potato and pumpkin that melt into a delictable base. If you prefer a lighter soup then add more stock to thin the base, or try adding more cocount milk for a very savory and unique taste.