Beluga lentils are a type of legume that originated in India and have been a staple in Indian cuisine for centuries. These small, black lentils have a distinct flavor and texture that make them perfect for a variety of dishes. One of the most popular ways to prepare beluga lentils is in an Indian-style dish, packed with flavor and spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
Main Ingredients: Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Beluga Lentils
This hearty and nutritious salad is the perfect addition to any summer barbecue or picnic. Roasted broccoli, peppery arugula, and protein-packed lentils combine to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Topped with a homemade lemon vinaigrette, this salad is sure to be a crowd favorite.
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Indian Spiced Baby Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Baby Potatoes, Beluga Lentils, Tumeric, Flour, Cumin
Looking for a flavorful side dish to accompany your main course? Look no further than these Indian spiced baby potatoes. The combination of bold spices and tender, roasted potatoes will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it's vegan and gluten-free, making it the perfect dish for everyone to enjoy.
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Black Lentil Curry (Vegan Indian Dal)
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Onion, Garlic Cloves, Ginger, Small
This vegan and gluten-free black lentil curry is packed with flavor and nutrients. The creamy lentils are simmered in a fragrant blend of Indian spices, creating a delicious and satisfying dish. Serve over rice or with naan for a complete meal.
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Lightly Curried Vegan Beluga Lentils With Vegetables
Main Ingredients: Beluga Lentils, Tomatoes, Onions, Cumin Seeds, Garlic
Beluga lentils are small and dark in color, making them a unique and tasty addition to any dish. This lightly curried vegan beluga lentil dish is loaded with colorful vegetables, creating a beautiful and nutritious meal. The subtle curry flavors add a touch of warmth and spice to the dish.
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Dal Bukhara
Main Ingredients: Coriander Seeds, Cumin Seeds, Fennel Seeds, Cassia
Dal Bukhara is a rich and creamy lentil dish that originated in Northern India. It is traditionally cooked for hours over a slow fire, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep flavors. This vegan version uses black lentils, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Roasted Winter Squash with Creamy Lentils [vegan]
Main Ingredients: Winter Squash, Vegetable Oil, Onion, Garlic Cloves
This cozy and comforting dish is perfect for the colder months. Roasted winter squash is paired with creamy lentils and topped with a flavorful tahini sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a standout on any dinner table.
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Meatless Monday Dinner
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic, Rosemary, Salt
Looking for a meatless meal that is still hearty and satisfying? This lentil and vegetable dish is perfect for Meatless Monday or any night of the week. Loaded with protein and nutrients, it is a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet.
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Mexican Raw Vegan Bowls with Guacamole
Main Ingredients: Beluga Lentils, Purple Cabbage, Salt, Carrot, Red Bell
These Mexican raw vegan bowls are a fresh and flavorful twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. Loaded with vegetables, quinoa, and lentils, these bowls are packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. And the homemade guacamole adds a delicious and creamy element to the dish.
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Slow Cooker Lentil-Quinoa Taco Filling from Vegan Slow...
Main Ingredients: Brown Lentils, Beluga Lentils, Quinoa, Water, Garlic
This slow cooker lentil-quinoa taco filling is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and come home to a delicious and nutritious meal. Serve in tacos, burritos, or over rice for a versatile and satisfying dinner option.
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Black Beluga Lentils
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Olive Oil, Shallots, Garlic, Carrots, Celery
Black beluga lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They also have a delicious earthy flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Use them in soups, stews, or as a substitute for traditional rice or pasta.
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Creamy Mushroom and Black Beluga Lentil Stew
Main Ingredients: Black Beluga Lentils, Low Sodium Vegetable Broth, Fresh
This creamy mushroom and black beluga lentil stew is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for chilly nights. Loaded with flavorful mushrooms and tender lentils, it is a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet.
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Black Lentil Salad
Main Ingredients: Beluga Lentils, Celery, Green Onions, Chickpeas, Plum
Black lentils are the star of this colorful and nutritious salad. Tossed with a homemade lemon vinaigrette, it is a light and refreshing meal that is perfect for warmer weather. Add your favorite vegetables and toppings for a customizable and tasty salad.
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Black Lentil Soup
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic Cloves, Baby Carrots, White
This black lentil soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for cozy nights at home. Loaded with vegetables and lentils, it is a nutritious and satisfying meal. Serve with crusty bread for a complete and delicious dinner.
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Slow Cooker Lentil-Quinoa Taco Filling
Main Ingredients: Brown Lentils, Beluga Lentils, Quinoa, Water, Garlic
This slow cooker lentil-quinoa taco filling is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and come home to a delicious and nutritious meal. Serve in tacos, burritos, or over rice for a versatile and satisfying dinner option.
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Lentil Soup with Coconut
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Onion, Carrot, Celery Stalk
This lentil soup with coconut is a flavorful and unique twist on traditional lentil soup. The addition of coconut milk creates a creamy and rich texture, while the spices add a delicious and warming element. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying and comforting meal.
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Madras Lentils
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Fresh Ginger
Madras lentils are a popular Indian dish that is typically served over rice. This homemade version is loaded with flavor and can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. The combination of lentils, tomatoes, and spices creates a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Spicy Beluga Pasta Sauce with Mushrooms and Wine
Main Ingredients: Mushrooms, Dry Red Wine, Water, Beluga Lentils, Diced
This spicy beluga pasta sauce is a delicious and unique way to enjoy lentils. The addition of mushrooms and red wine creates a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs well with any type of pasta. Plus, the lentils add a boost of protein and nutrients to the dish.
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Curried Lentil Stew
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Medium Onion, Tomato Paste
This curried lentil stew is a flavorful and nutritious meal that is perfect for any night of the week. Loaded with vegetables and lentils, it is a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet. The curry spices add a delicious and warming element to the dish.
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Ultimate Vegan Haggis
Main Ingredients: Butter, Large Onion, Large Carrot, Portobello, Black
This vegan haggis is a creative and delicious take on the traditional Scottish dish. Made with lentils, oats, and spices, it is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Serve with neeps and tatties for a complete and authentic experience.
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Black and Red Lentil Chili
Main Ingredients: Large Onion, Large Bell Pepper, Garlic, Mild Chili
This black and red lentil chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for chilly nights. Loaded with lentils, beans, and vegetables, it is a nutritious and satisfying meal. Serve with your favorite toppings and a side of cornbread for a complete and delicious dinner.
The Health Benefits of Beluga Lentils
Nutrition
Beluga lentils are not only delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients that are essential for a healthy diet. These tiny legumes are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and iron. They are also low in fat and contain no cholesterol, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans. In addition, beluga lentils are rich in folate, magnesium, and potassium, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
Heart Health
The high fiber content of beluga lentils can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The folate in these lentils can also help lower homocysteine levels, which have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Adding beluga lentils to your diet can help keep your heart healthy and strong.
Weight Management
Beluga lentils are a great choice for those looking to manage their weight. The high fiber and protein content of these lentils can help you feel full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Additionally, the low glycemic index of beluga lentils means they are digested slowly, providing sustained energy and keeping you feeling full for longer.
Indian-Style Beluga Lentil Recipe
Now that you know the health benefits of beluga lentils, let's dive into a delicious and easy Indian-style recipe. This dish combines the nutty flavor of beluga lentils with the aromatic spices of Indian cuisine, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
1 cup beluga lentils
1 onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon ginger paste
1 tomato, diced
1 cup water
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Start by rinsing the beluga lentils in cold water and draining them.
In a large pot, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
Add the cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, and ginger paste to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the diced tomato and cook until it becomes soft.
Add the beluga lentils and water to the pot and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and let the lentils simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender.
Add salt to taste.
Serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Conclusion
Beluga lentils are not only a delicious addition to any meal, but they also offer numerous health benefits. By incorporating this Indian-style beluga lentil recipe into your diet, you can enjoy the rich flavors and reap the nutritional benefits of this superfood. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – your taste buds and body will thank you.
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