Serves 7
287 cal · 110 min
Honey Baked Lentils
Recipe GLPR886e3c6a0c5481
A hearty, wholesome baked lentil casserole enriched with ground beef, carrots, and onions, then sweetened with honey and aromatic herbs. The lentils are first simmered until tender, then combined with browned beef and vegetables, and baked until the flavors meld beautifully. Perfect as a nourishing side dish or light main course.
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Ingredients
2 cups dry lentils
5 cups water
1 bay leaf
1 cup carrots, finely chopped
1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
1 cup water
1/2 pound 90% lean ground beef
1/3 cup honey
1 teaspoon fresh or dried herbs (such as thyme, oregano, or basil)
Directions
Rinse the lentils under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer, then place them in a large saucepan along with the bay leaf and 5 cups of water.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for approximately 30 minutes until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
While the lentils simmer, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink inside (160°F internal temperature). Drain off excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
Once the lentils are tender, remove and discard the bay leaf. Do not drain the cooking liquid.
In a small bowl, combine the chopped carrots and onions with the remaining 1 cup of water.
Pour the carrot and onion mixture into the cooked lentils and stir well to combine.
Transfer the lentil and vegetable mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Add the browned ground beef to the baking dish and stir thoroughly to distribute evenly throughout.
Drizzle the honey evenly over the entire surface of the casserole and sprinkle with the fresh or dried herbs.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place in a preheated 350°F oven.
Bake for 1 hour until the casserole is heated through and the flavors have melded together. The top should appear glossy from the honey.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
