4 LENTIL Recipes EVERYONE Should Know

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INDIAN SPICES USED IN THIS VIDEO (all sold at your local Indian grocery store!)
Mustard seeds: amzn.to/43yr9iT
Cumin seeds: amzn.to/3x6RmsL
Dried red chili peppers: amzn.to/4cp8XMP
Curry leaves (buy fresh at Indian grocers; or buy dried leaves like this amzn.to/3x6UXae
Asafetida: amzn.to/3TMuzLC
🔑 KEY MOMENTS:
00:00 Lentils are one of the best foods
00:19 Crunchy Indian Lentil Snack
02:24 Dal Palak (my new favorite dal)
06:23 Red Lentil Bolognese (1000+ 5-star reviews)
10:20 Meaty Lentil Tacos

[@Rachel-sv9pq]

My mom is a notorious lentil hater but I've cooked several of the meal plan lentil recipes for her and literally just last night she said "I've always hated lentils because I thought they tasted like dirt but lately they've tasted good." You converted her! I'll have to try some of these next!

[@RainbowPlantLife]

This is so lovely to hear! I love when you can convince someone that they don't actually hate a certain ingredient...they just haven't find the right method or recipe. So happy you and your mom have been enjoying the lentil recipes in the meal plan!!

[@beverlyheinritz5294]

I agree with mom. I always thought lentils taste like dirt. I have obviously been eating lentils cooked by restaurants that don’t know how to make them. The first recipe I found that I liked was posted on KZbin by someone who said she and her husband did not like lentils but loved this soup. That was the recipe for me. All of these recipes look delicious with layers of flavor added. I may go first with the bolognese.

[@lisetteem588]

that's great. lentils are so healthy. I made some little lentil balls that tasted like greek me*tballs. im veg so.. it's borderline for me..

[@kumaridesilva3992]

I had the same experience, when my ex-husband made lentils they tasted literally like dirt, but not the way I make them now! Thank you Rainbow Plant Life

[@cwgu4693]

The lentil bolognese is OUTRAGEOUS. I've made it at least 30 times from your cookbook. The wine and whole tube of tomato paste technique is next level.

[@RainbowPlantLife]

Right? Those techniques just take it to the next level. Thanks for sharing!

[@nanc2907]

Seconding this! I've made it a bunch and for nonveggie guests and they love it

[@DiegoPerez-mb8bs]

Do you think the tomato paste could be replaced by reduced, precooked tomatoes?@@RainbowPlantLife

[@WiseMindNutrition]

We want to try this also!

[@tiffanyrankin9059]

This is the best vegetarian/vegan bolognese I have ever cooked. I make a huge batch & freeze it into containers that hold 2 portions each, so they're ready for weeknight dinners. This, with a rocket (arugula) & parmesan salad, is fantstic.

[@jababygirl03]

Ma’am we need to talk come here …………… I just made the bolognese with the wine and really cook in layers as you described in your recipe. Let me tell you, I’m so proud of myself and this sauce taste so good. Idk if because of the caramelizing of the onion, paste and wine but it was just perfect amount of sweet. Now I’m still cooking currently, I like how thick your was so I’m going to keep cooking but thank you. Thank you for sharing and I will be drilling around to help with having some good meal prep

[@RainbowPlantLife]

☺i'm so glad you are loving the layered flavors in the bolognese sauce! the sauce (without the pasta) freezes great so you can keep leftovers on hand :)

[@aviapoIis]

I am so glad that channels like this also exists in the internet!❤

[@Elynnewith2N]

I don’t disagree but…what do you mean by “like this”?

[@Peridot07]

@@Elynnewith2NI’ve been watching YT since 2008 and back than videos were more content based and meaningful unlike today’s video

[@cornelisgoedegebuur1162]

absolutely!

[@deborahh3019]

Until yesterday when I watched this video, recipes for Lentil Bolognese never really sounded good to me. I'm so glad I gave yours a try! This dish is a new obsession with my family. It seems decadent but is incredibly healthy. Thanks so much for sharing your creative gifts with your viewers.

[@diana1833]

never clicked so fast on a video

[@MoveWithNicole]

All these recipes look delicious! I can't wait to try all of them! 😍

[@plauditecives]

You always remind me that I need to get off my duff and make more of an effort to vary my plant-based diet. I have no excuses either, as I live in Toronto, and have access to a wide range of ingredients. Curry leaves (which I love) are available at the Sri Lankan grocer near me, as is every type of spice. I really recommend the porcini powder you suggested -- it adds so much flavour. I grind my own from the large bag of dried porcini I buy from an Italian-food shop here in Toronto. I love all the dishes you prepare!

[@lauriefuda]

I was wondering whether or not you could grind up dried porcinis to make a powder? I've never seen the powder anywhere although I know I could find it online or possibly at the Indian grocery store that I found the curry leaves in, but the problem is they often sell in bulk, or in really big bags and it's just me and my husband. I like buying dried morel mushrooms as well-the stock they make is amazing! Then we use the reconstituted mushrooms and put them in the food processor with some fresh mushrooms and it's really good. Thanks for your tips.

[@spoudaois4535]

I love lentils. They are satisfying and make one feel so good inside.

[@benda777nba]

I saw this video pop up but my Saturday mornings are so busy...finally after mowing grass I sat outside and watched this video loving life...I'm so excited to try these plus happy to say I purchased your book Nisha!

[@mauimarcus]

These all look fantastic! I really look forward to your new vids, and sometimes binge-watching older ones. Thanks for what you do.

[@aka.radstatic]

So far I’ve made each of these recipes this week and I’m astounded! I’m completely hooked on the lentil snack. It almost feels like a cheat code to add it on to another delicious dish. Thanks so much

[@dorianrecord8200]

I have just recently discovered the wholesome and hearty magic of lentils and I can’t WAIT for these recipes!! Thank you Nisha for always reading my mind and showing us the best and most creative yet nutritious recipes!! 🌱❤

[@RainbowPlantLife]

Welcome to the fabulous world of lentils 🥳 hope you’ll love these recipes!

[@saloniv85]

Nisha, you can cook the dal in the instant pot for 8 mins rather than stove cooking for 30 mins. Plus you dont need to stir or baby sit it. More time and effort efficient!

[@kerry8461]

If you have an Instant Pot you should check out Nisha’s Instant Pot cookbook. It’s probably my most used cookbook, it’s so good.

[@DVB1848]

Lentils and beans can be cooked in a pressure cooker, saving time and nutrients

[@lizinawe]

thanks only cook with instapot these days

[@rhondasedillo4612]

​@@kerry8461 I have that one and love it!

[@dawnkeckley7502]

Tolerance of heat/spice can be hereditary, but it’s simply a trait that depends on the number of heat receptors in your mouth. Spicy foods contain a chemical called capsaicin, which activates a receptor found in your mouth and on your tongue called a TRPV1 receptor. There is some variation in the sensitivity of these receptors, and even the amount of them, from person to person. Birds lack these completely.

[@Janet.D.C.]

Spice / heat sets my digestive system on fire 🔥 . Makes me feel awful, so I avoid too much heat. I’m sure she would say I have “baby mouth”. (That sounds so condescending.) Love her recipes (toned down) and her personality, though. ❤

[@neonice]

​@@Janet.D.C.It is condescending. For some reason people like to boast about eating spicy foods as if it makes them some sort of superior person. I don't have a problem with spice either but I never understood why people act so edgy over it.

[@Janet.D.C.]

@@neonice Maybe she will read this and stop calling people out for having “baby mouth”. Extend a little grace and show that vegan love for all creatures, people included. 💞

[@MagycArwen]

The lentil ragù looks delicious. Little tip: if you want it to taste more authentic, use rosemary and/or bay and add celery/carrots to the onion. Some soy sauce, marmite or a couple pf dry porcini mushrooms will add meatiness and umami. This is how I make my vegan ragù as an Italian, born and raised. Oregano and thyme are a very American addition.

[@Melissa.Garrett]

Thank you, Nisha, you’ve inspired me to try new recipes again! I used to love experimenting, but recently life has been so stressful that I’ve been falling back on the same tried-and-true recipes in constant rotation. Now I want to get cooking again. 😄

[@RainbowPlantLife]

Hi Melissa! I totally get that, it even happens to me from time to time. I’m honored these recipes are sparking that desire to get back in the kitchen though!

[@SiddhisvariBulloch]

Think I will be trying all of these recipes. Thank you!!

[@taylorbrooke3310]

This is also my second video watched of yours and I love them and your recipe ideas!!! They are so practical, yummy looking, plant based healthy easy meals that are much like my own cooking. Thank you for the ideas and for your wholesome videos! 🙏

[@kaateeh]

Hey Nisha! I am madly in love with your style of cooking. Not everything is for me, but most of it, and I still use your instapot cookbook frequently. I remember you made a little cookbooks as well: The Mezzo one, and the Salads one. Have you made more of them? I just can't watch all your videos again :D Thank you so much for all you do, and I can't wait for your new cookbook!

[@chandaharkins4418]

The term "baby mouth" has become part of my vernacular. 🤣 I am definitely a weenie. These recipes look amazing!

[@Cupcake6907]

Thank you so much for sharing your recipes! I’m so excited to try them soon!

[@endlesssmile8905]

"Nothing is too spicy for me." 😂

[@christinelachance]

Yes! I've been looking for more lentil recipes. Such great timing!

[@Kavita_826]

Dal was ALWAYS my favourite food growing up with a Sikh mum, now my mum has sadly passed but I often make a red lentil Dal it's comfort food at its finest. Plus my 5 year old loves it too ❤

[@RainbowPlantLife]

I'm sorry to hear about your mom's passing :( I hope you find happy memories of her and joy when you make red lentil dal. Lots of love!

[@marykaren7542]

These recipes look amazing! Thanks!

[@katielouise210]

all of these recipes look amazing, nisha!!! makes me even more excited for your cookbook

[@davidsthoughts60]

I'm saving this one. I love lentils and love your recipes.

[@blue-fj9ky]

People say "but what do you eat?" and "how do you get your protein? 😄 Mung, chana, masoor, urad, toor, brown, french...some lentils I regularly enjoy! Thank you for more great recipe ideas. And kudos on your outstanding videography. Those clear close-ups of the food are great!

[@vidyasamaroo5783]

These recipes look mouthwatering good. Thank you. I am definitely trying to all of these.

[@Artncraft05]

I love how you added whole spinach leaves, I am used to chop them fine in paalak daal but now want to try it your way ❤ I’m a new subscriber and loving your modern way of Indian vegetarian cooking, very therapeutic content !

[@arunakamala23]

Omg Nisha these recipes are outstanding. I’m drooling. 🤤

[@nickcarneyphotography]

I just made the lentil bolognese last night! It’s a steady part of our cooking rotation. So simple and delicious.

[@alinapastor6674]

Thank you so much for these healthy and yummy recipes . Greetings for Romania 🥰

[@WiseMindNutrition]

These all look so amazing! Also love the cooking tips along the way. Such an accessible way to learn how to create new meals in the kitchen :)

[@anndhupelia8175]

Sending a big “Thank You” from Australia Nisha! I LOVE your recipes and your sense of humour.🙏🌹

[@joselrocher1484]

Just made the Dal Palak, it was sooo good! Thanks for the recipe.

[@gergelynagy874]

I can't tell you how grareful I am for these videos and how much you helped me to improve my cooking. Thanks a lot!

[@RainbowPlantLife]

Oh that makes me SO happy to hear!🥰

[@gloriaf6971]

I love Indian food. The spices are so good. The onions, garlic and ginger add so much good flavor to the food. Indian food is the best!!!

[@kwimms]

Thank you SO MUCH for sharing your amazing cooking skills!

[@Sachora]

I made the tacos last night for dinner and they were AMAZING. I'll definitely be using that as a regular taco-tuesday staple. I'm also going to do your bolognese next week. Great recipes!

[@charlottemimi1539]

Love this . Thank you so much x

[@MatthewRobinson-tt8mh]

Thank you so much for the recipe 🌹

[@peaceinwandering]

Can’t wait to try the lentil taco meat and those tacos look amazing! All the components you prep up look so good and inspire me a lot. Esp the use of whole foods like cabbage and omega 3s from the walnuts 💯

[@RainbowPlantLife]

Doesn’t it feel amazing when you can make something super delicious like tacos and still get in those health benefits?!❤

[@elixirdelatierra]

I looove lentils, and all these recipes look delicious, I can't wait to try them (obsessed with your red lentil curry btw, I make it almost every week haha). Love the new edit on this one. Love from Spain! 🧡

[@anji3537]

Love all the recipes also in Spain 🇪🇸 is there a Spanish equivalent of atta flour here?

[@jbw53191]

Wow. You are just knocking it out of the ballpark! Thank you for your work

[@RainbowPlantLife]

That's very kind of you to say!

[@gemmahilton2236]

Making your lentil bolognaise and it’s amazing. So much better than any recipe I’ve tried for it in the past ❤

[@jackiecuba3414]

Nisha, you already know I'll be making all of these recipes like I always do with every video you post haha. I've actually made the Bolognese twice before and it was soooo good! That taco meat is restaurant worthy. Yum!

[@mostlysane9376]

They look awesome. Thank you.

[@mordybarnett5043]

This is awesome, everything looks delicious

[@shunwilliams6180]

Amazing thank you so much for sharing ❤❤❤

[@HalfLatinaJoy86]

These look great, thank you!

[@Sweetlilyshow]

You are fantastic ❤❤❤ I just found you and I am ecstatic. I can already taste these meals. 🙏🏽 thank you 😊

[@sallyhostetter2820]

Recipes are terrific. I love Lentils.

[@manelgamaeathige6857]

Thanks Nisha, lovely recipes.❤️

[@Islam-11]

Looks so good!

[@benda777nba]

MMM I just enjoyed the spinach dal recipe. I made the lentils Friday and the dal on Saturday (but forgot to buy spinach so used cabbage instead) but as today was Easter had to visit familly for a heavy meal. Fortunately back at my house I finally warmed up both foods and said oh wow! I didn't put the chilies even though I have lots leftover from making guajillo sauce lol and wonder if it would be better if I had added but oh well this will be my lunch or dinner rest of week! Thanks fam.

[@Goghahahahahaeej]

Thank you! I do love lentil dal but did need some new recipes ❤

[@CarlYoungII]

That pasta recipe looks fantastic! I love lentils but I've been wanting to try different recipes for them. I'm making the pasta one this weekend. Can't wait!!!😋😋😋🔥🔥🔥🔥👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽

[@mariedamon5655]

This looks deliscious thank you

[@positiveme4063]

Ohhhh i am so glad i saw this video. These recipes are perfect for me .. yummmmm

[@greentara291]

Daaamn! Your recipes look soooo delicious. No wine for me. I was thinking balsamic instead, and then you added it later! I'll be looking for your cookbook. Lentils are my favorite!

[@filofteia1]

Amazing recipes. Keep up the good work, very good presentation

[@gregakal556]

Your bolognese recipe has become a staple in my family.

[@janpeaver12]

I have made 3 of 4 recipes (haven't doen the tacos yet). The other three are amazing! The bolognese tasted exactly like a high end italian restaurant version, the snack mix has been added to my every day salad lunch and the dal palak. And let's talk about the Dal palak! I didn't make your dal because I love the dhal recipe that I use (and I already had it in the freezer). But normally I serve the dhal over rice. So your recipe has the dhal has the base with the palak on top then the lentil snack crunch. It is AMAZING! Truly everything you describe here! Thank you, thank you!!

[@donnapastuszak8335]

I made the Red Lentil Bolognese tonight and it was amazing! This will definitely be a go to recipe!

[@chrishicks2977]

Everything looks delicious, can't wait to try them.

[@msKita43]

I live right down the street from an Indian grocery store. Definitely going to go in and search for the curry leaves.

[@mariebourgot4949]

Thank you Nisha! These looks delicious! ^^

[@vixlenz4104]

Looks amazing!!🌈💕💕💕

[@suzettesmith2075]

I'm going to have to try lentils for meat replacer. Thank you for sharing

[@Ashweee223]

I just made the bolognese and it was absolutely FABULOUS! I'm not vegan, but I have been reducing my meat consumption significantly, and your recipes have made it so easy! Your chickpea curry is also out of this world. Thank you for sharing these wonderful recipes with us, Nisha!

[@carrie1163]

Wow! I just made the Crunchy Indian Lentil Snack.... and omgoodness, it's so good, even my picky husband loved it! I'm so glad I quadrupled the ingredients because this isn't going to last very long! Thank you! :)

[@RainbowPlantLife]

Wow, that was fast! Lucky you and your husband 🤤 Happy you’re both loving it!

[@LS-mi4pg]

i'm so excited for your book!!

[@venice9438]

This is a really excellent video. I'm going to make the first one.

[@StorytimewithSai]

Thank you for sharing these recipes 🥰 looks delicious!

[@Skullx19]

Thank you so much for this 🤗looks really good ima cook it now wish me luck 🧸💪🏾

[@MP-ep9ur]

❤️❤️❤️ Love your Channel, love your style, love your recipes, you have a gift …. Thank you for sharing ❤️❤️❤️

[@susanneaggerholm2171]

I cannot wait to make these recipes. The Bolognese sounds amazing. Thank you for some absolutely delicious recipes 😊

[@nancywhite2014]

Thanks Nisha! These look fantastic! I have your instant pot vegan cookbook and am looking forward to the new book release!😋😋😋😋😋

[@IAmVegan-un9ss]

Oh I love all kinds of soups thanks for the video

[@mcgn5325]

Lentil lover here 👋 thank you for those recipes! Will definitely try 💚

[@danielvanrooyen2785]

Great fan of your approach. And recipes... As for myself: I love lentils! HAve my own quick, easy, simple lentil dishes:)

[@LauraBriquet]

Notification and click, I love your recipes!!!!!

[@RainbowPlantLife]

☺️☺️☺️

[@Madura87]

Yes!! Yes!!! Yes!!! That's my girl!

[@RSun-vc6th]

Yumm. I have made the dhal and bolognese within the last couple of weeks - they are both delicious. Love it, thank you.

[@rollingthunderagain]

Thank you so much for going into detail on things like knife skills, the coconut oil shimmering, and the mustard seeds popping. These pieces of knowledge are treasure for a beginner cook. I'm so excited to try these recipes!

[@AndyRiot]

So creative and inspiring! Amazing content. Thank you!

[@loretta7851]

The second dal dish with spinach is something different than I learned from my Indian mother-in-law. I like this version I’m going to try it today.

[@stephanieray6587]

Wow, just wow.

[@Reb1111]

I made this today and am so glad I did. This Dal Palak tasted fantastic, although I didn't have curry leaves but will try to get my hands on them for next time. Also, my partner approved, which meant a lot! Definitely going into my weekly meal rotation. Thank you!

[@lilaluna8922]

Thank you so much for your amazing recepies. Even though I usually just use them as inspiration they have heavily influenced my cooking, especially Indian food. Lentil bolognese is one of my favorite dishes and I'll definitely try adding some balsamic vinegar next time but wouldn't want to miss some celery and carrots in it.

[@icookconnect]

We LOVE lentils! Thank you for sharing!

[@ronm6585]

Thanks R.P.L.

[@SP-kk1zd]

Dal palak is me current favourite too! 🤩

[@brendafarris7350]

Oh my goodness!!!! sooooo good

[@pendomojaxkalibre5686]

Thank you so much🙏

[@cindycollins4040]

Love these

[@marietoby1394]

Loving your expert tip added here and there aka lentils not breaking down as well in acidic cooking environments… 😊

[@cinnabeld8284]

Made the lentil bolognese one, added some red pepper and zuchinni, turned out delish!