For the Lentils:

1 cup (6 ½ oz) red lentils

2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon salt

5 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

a dash of chili powder

¼ teaspoon paprika

5-6 small plum tomatoes, chopped

1 lemon, sliced into rounds

3 cups vegetable stock

Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, to garnish

For the rice:

1 cup white rice

2 ½ cups water

¾ teaspoon salt

For the Lentils:

Rinse the lentils under cold running water until the water runs clear.

Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add onion and salt to cook, stirring, until onions are soft and translucent (about 5 mins). Add garlic, ginger, chili powder, and paprika. Cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).

Stir in the tomatoes, 3 of the lemon slices, the stock, and the lentils.

Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce to medium-low heat, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes until lentils are tender.

For the Rice:

Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. Combine the rice, salt, and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 45-60 minutes or until rice is tender and water has been absorbed. Remove rice from the heat and allow to rest for 10 minutes, and then fluff it with a fork.

Squeeze remaining lemon slices over the stew and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve stew over the rice and sprinkle with garnish. Enjoy!