Lentil and Feta Bake

Lentil and Feta Bake Recipe from Egypt | Vegetarian Recipe

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 30-40 minutes | Servings: 6-8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Lentil and Feta Bake is a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is not only satisfying but also easy to make.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional lentil dishes that have been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. Lentils are a staple in many cuisines due to their versatility and health benefits.

Ingredients

375 ml lentils, soaked overnight
60 g fresh wholemeal breadcrumbs
100 g chopped hazelnuts
10 ml mild prepared mustard
salt
2 ml freshly ground black pepper
30 ml olive oil
2 leeks
2 carrots, grated
2 egg whites
6-8 slices feta cheese
2 tomatoes, ripe and sliced
30 ml freshly chopped parsley
5 ml chopped fresh basil

How to prepare

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Cook the lentils in water for approximately 30 minutes until tender.
3. Drain the lentils and mix them with the breadcrumbs, hazelnuts, mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Heat 15 ml of oil in a frying pan and sauté the leeks and carrots until tender.
5. Add the sautéed leeks and carrots to the lentil mixture.
6. Stir in the egg whites.
7. Place the mixture into an ovenware dish, finishing with a layer of feta cheese.
8. Arrange the tomato slices on top and sprinkle the remaining oil over them.
9. Sprinkle the parsley and basil on top.
10. Cover the dish and bake it for 15–20 minutes in the preheated oven.
11. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 3–8 minutes.

Variations

Add roasted vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor.
Substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or vegan cheese for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the lentils overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.

- Sautéing the leeks and carrots before adding them to the lentil mixture will enhance their flavors.

- Be sure to cover the dish while baking to prevent the feta cheese from burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Lentil and Feta Bake with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the leeks and carrots before adding them to the lentil mixture will enhance their flavors.

- Covering the dish while baking will help the flavors meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of lentils you prefer, such as green or red lentils.

- Substitute hazelnuts with almonds or walnuts if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the lentil mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Lentil and Feta Bake with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Lentil and Feta Bake with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lentil and Feta Bake contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lentil and Feta Bake contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lentil and Feta Bake contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Lentil and Feta Bake contains approximately 12 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Lentils are a good source of iron, folate, and magnesium, while feta cheese provides calcium and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts and dairy (feta cheese), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Lentil and Feta Bake is a nutritious dish that is high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for vegetarians looking for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Summary

Lentil and Feta Bake is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a vegetarian dinner. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe book that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the yellowed pages, my eyes fell upon a faded piece of paper tucked between the pages. Curious, I carefully unfolded it and my heart skipped a beat when I saw the words "Lentil and Feta Bake" written in elegant cursive.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but the ingredients listed seemed simple enough. Lentils, feta cheese, onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try.

I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a little girl watching my own mother and grandmother prepare delicious meals in the kitchen. They taught me the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and the art of seasoning dishes just right. I had learned so much from them over the years, and now it was time to put that knowledge to the test with this new recipe.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped the onions and minced the garlic, the familiar scents filled the air, bringing back memories of family gatherings and holiday feasts. I sautéed the vegetables in a hot pan until they were soft and fragrant, then added the lentils and a splash of vegetable broth to simmer.

As the lentils cooked, I crumbled the tangy feta cheese and mixed it with a handful of fresh herbs. The combination of flavors was intoxicating, and I knew this dish was going to be something special. I layered the lentil mixture in a baking dish, sprinkled the feta cheese mixture on top, and popped it into the oven to bake.

As the Lentil and Feta Bake cooked, the aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible. The earthy lentils, creamy feta cheese, and savory herbs blended together perfectly, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying. When it was finally done, I couldn't wait to dig in.

I scooped a generous portion onto my plate and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, each ingredient complementing the other in a symphony of taste. The lentils were tender and hearty, the feta cheese melted and gooey, and the herbs added a fresh brightness to the dish. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

I shared the Lentil and Feta Bake with my family that evening, and they all raved about how delicious it was. They couldn't believe that such a simple dish could be so flavorful and satisfying. I told them the story of how I had found the recipe tucked away in an old book, and they laughed and said that I had a talent for discovering hidden gems.

From that day on, the Lentil and Feta Bake became a regular feature on my family's dinner table. I would make it for special occasions and weeknight meals alike, and it never failed to impress. It was a dish that brought us together, filled our bellies, and warmed our hearts.

As I look back on that fateful day when I found the recipe for Lentil and Feta Bake, I am grateful for the serendipity that led me to discover it. It has become a beloved part of my culinary repertoire, a dish that I will cherish and pass down to future generations. And every time I make it, I am reminded of the joy that cooking brings and the love that is shared around the table.