Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (green or brown); 1 cup rice (white or brown); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Food

I love making Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice because it perfectly combines the earthiness of lentils with the richness of cream and garlic. The creamy texture makes it a comforting dish, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. We often enjoy it as a wholesome side or a main dish during busy weeknights. The combination of flavors is amazing, and it’s a great way to introduce more plant-based meals into our menu. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a household favorite too!

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-21T20:13:35.054Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice, I was blown away by how the lentils soaked up the creamy garlic sauce, creating a meal that was both hearty and luxurious! I remember trying to balance spices and flavors and discovering that a bit of lemon juice at the end brightened the whole dish beautifully.

This recipe is great for meal prep, too! I often make a big batch and store it in the fridge, where the flavors deepen over time. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken, making it super versatile!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor enhances the earthy lentils
Creamy texture that satisfies any comfort food craving
Perfect as a side dish or satisfying vegan main

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of lentils and rice not only offers a fantastic texture but also provides a complete protein profile. Together, they supply all essential amino acids, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying. For variety, you can experiment with different types of lentils, such as red for a quicker cooking time or black for a firmer bite, while using brown rice for added fiber and nuttiness.

Using coconut cream instead of heavy cream not only makes this dish vegan but adds a subtle sweetness that complements the garlic beautifully. If you're looking to reduce calories, you can substitute half of the cream with vegetable broth and still retain excellent flavor while achieving a creamy consistency. Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning for a balanced flavor profile.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When cooking lentils and rice together, ensure the pot is covered tightly to lock in steam, which aids in even cooking. If you notice the rice is becoming overcooked and mushy, consider using a different ratio of liquid. A guideline is to use 1 part lentils to 1 part rice with 4 parts broth, adjusting slightly based on your preferences for texture. If it's too soupy, keep it covered for a few extra minutes off the heat to absorb excess moisture.

Don't rush the sautéing process when preparing the aromatics. Cooking the onions until they are translucent allows them to release their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. If garlic burns, it may turn bitter, so keep a close eye on it during the last minute of cooking. Taking care with these steps will elevate the final result from simple to truly delightful.

Ingredients

To make Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup lentils (green or brown)
1 cup rice (white or brown)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice:

Cook Lentils and Rice

Rinse the lentils and rice under cold water. In a large pot, combine lentils, rice, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the rice is cooked.

Sauté Aromatics

In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Combine and Cream

Once the lentils and rice are cooked, add them to the pan with the sautéed onion and garlic. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut cream, and mix well. Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste, then heat through.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your hearty and creamy dish!

This dish is as delicious as it is simple to prepare!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach just before serving. These not only enhance the taste but also boost the nutritional profile of the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice makes fantastic leftovers. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container; it will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of vegetable broth or water to regain creaminess. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the dish from drying out.

For meal prep, consider making a larger batch and freezing portions in individual containers. When stored properly, it can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and it will be almost as good as freshly cooked. This strategy makes for quick, comforting meals on those busy days.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is hearty on its own, you can easily elevate it with sides or toppings for a complete meal. Try adding a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for a fresh contrast. For an extra protein boost, serve it alongside grilled tofu or chickpea patties, enhancing the meal's nutritional value while keeping it plant-based.

Taste-testing can be fun! Change up the seasoning by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for depth. Feel free to incorporate sautéed spinach or kale into the mix for added nutrients without compromising on the creamy texture. These little adjustments can transform your experience with this versatile dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, using canned lentils can save time. Just rinse and add them to the sautéed mixture without the simmering step.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream for a similar creamy texture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.