"Beefy" Lentils and Rice

"Beefy" Lentils and Rice

Servings: 4–6
Time: 20 minutes
Cost per serving: ~$1.50

Can you get a healthier and cheaper meal than this? I don't know, but I like how easy it is to put together and that my kids will eat it, so that's a huge win! Lentils are packed with fiber and plant-based protein. And if I want to add a little more flavor and protein I'll add one pound of impossible ground beef to the meal. (a little goes a long way!) Either way, this one is a staple at our house!

✨ Ingredients

• 1 cup dry rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup dry lentils (brown or green)
• 6–8 cups water (to cook)
• 1 tablespoon “No Beef” vegetarian bouillon paste (or double the usual amount for stronger flavor)
• ½ cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• Salt, to taste

🥣 Instructions

1. Boil rice and lentils:
   In two separate pots, boil water and cook rice and lentils until tender. (Treat them like pasta—drain the rice after cooking.)
2. Flavor the lentils:
   While lentils cook, stir in bouillon paste and chopped mushrooms. The goal is to heavily season the lentils so they mimic ground beef.
3. Finish the rice:
   Lightly salt the rice while it finishes cooking. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine:
   In a large skillet or pot on low heat, mix 2 cups of cooked lentils, 2 cups of cooked rice, and 2 cups of frozen vegetables. Stir until warmed through.
5. Serve and store:
   Serve warm. Leftovers freeze well for future meals!

(Optional: Add a bit of Impossible Meat for a meatier version.)