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Les Lentilles (Reunion Lentils)

Les Lentilles (Reunion Lentils) is a traditional Reunion recipe for a classic vegetarian stew of lentils with onion, cumin and thyme that's typically served as an accompaniment. The full recipe is presented here and I hope you enjoy this classic Reunion version of: Reunion Lentils (Les Lentilles).

prep time

20 minutes

cook time

45 minutes

Total Time:

65 minutes

Serves:

4

Rating:

Tags : Vegetarian RecipesBean RecipesReunion Recipes

In Reunion, the cilaos lentil, a white lentil is grown. Originally from India, they were introduced to Reunion in 1836 and are now considered an endemic plant species of Reunion Island, and more particularly, from the Cirque of Cilaos. Every year in October, there is a five-day festival o promote the legume that makes the success of the city of Cilaos throughout the Reunion Island. Though 1836/1837 is the official data of the introduction of cilaos lentils to Réunion, there are reports of the presence of the legume since 1833.

Ingredients:

250g lentils
1 large onion
4 tbsp oil
2 tsp ground cumin
leaves from 1 sprig thyme
salt to taste
oil

Method:

Add the lentils to a casserole pot with 400ml water and simmer for about 25 minutes until soft. Slice the onions in thin slices and fry in the oil for a few minutes before adding crushed garlic and cumin. Season with salt and cook until the garlic turns golden. Add the lentils and 250ml water and cook for 20 minutes.

Add a little more water if the sauce becomes dry. By the end you should have a lentil purée. Serve with rice.