Crazy Good Dal ~ Spicy Red Lentils

(Makes 3 servings, 1 ½ cups each)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dry red lentils
• 4 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• ¼ tsp. ground cumin
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tsp. finely chopped ginger
• 1 jalapeno pepper, stemmed, seeded, and finely chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
• ½ tsp. sea salt
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• 3 Tbsp. chopped raw cashews

Directions:

1. Rinse lentils, removing stones and debris, drain well; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium high heat.
3. Add onion; cook, stirring frequently, for 5 min., or until softened.
4. Add cumin, garlic, ginger, and jalapeno; cook, stirring frequently, for about 2 min.
5. Add lentils, broth, tomatoes and salt; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and gently boil, stirring frequently, for 22 minutes, or until lentils are soft.
7. Top with chopped cilantro and cashews; serve warm.

Lower- calorie modification:
Reduce serving to ¾ cup
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 397  Fat: 13g  Saturated fat: 2g  Cholesterol: o mg  Sodium: 736 mg  Sugar: 8g
Carbohydrate: 52g  Fiber: 12g Fiber: 12g Protein: 21g