Lentil Rice Pilaf

Lentil Rice Pilaf is a hearty, aromatic dish made by cooking rice and lentils together with onions, garlic, and warm spices like cumin and turmeric. It's a staple comfort food found across the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and the Mediterranean, often served as a main or side dish.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is a balanced source of complex carbohydrates and plant-based protein, with minimal fat. A typical one-cup serving provides around 250-350 calories and is rich in fiber, iron, and B vitamins.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	230 kcal
Protein	10 g
Carbs	40 g
Fat	3 g
Fiber	8 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	350 mg
Potassium	380 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Magnesium	50 mg
Phosphorus	150 mg
Folate	180 mcg
Thiamin (B1)	0.3 mg
Zinc	1.8 mg
Manganese	0.9 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, it's a beloved 'peasant food' that's both economical and nourishing, often associated with home cooking and communal meals. Nutritionally, the combination of lentils and rice creates a complete protein, making it a valuable staple for vegetarian diets.