Mediterranean Lentil Purée Recipes

MEDITERRANEAN LENTIL PURéE

Steps:

• Combine 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and the garlic in a small frying pan or saucepan over medium heat. When the garlic begins to sizzle, add the spices. Stir together for about 30 seconds, then remove from the heat and set aside.
• Place the lentils in a medium saucepan, cover by 1 to 2 inches with water, add a bay leaf, and bring to a boil. Add salt to taste, reduce the heat and cook until tender, 40 to 50 minutes. Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt. Place a strainer over a bowl and drain the lentils. Transfer to a food processor fitted with the steel blade.
• Purée the lentils along with the garlic and spices. With the machine running add the additional olive oil. Thin out as desired with the broth from the lentils. The purée should be very smooth; if it is dry or pasty, add more yogurt, broth, or olive oil. Taste and adjust salt. If desired add a few drops of lemon juice. Transfer to a bowl and sprinkle the cilantro over the top if desired, or spread directly on croutons or pita triangles.

RED LENTIL PUREE

Steps:

• Bring water, lentils and thyme to boil.
• Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes until lentils are soft and water is absorbed (for cooking time: refer also to package directions).
• Remove Thyme Sprigs and mash Lentils.
• Add salt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and pepper to taste. Mix well.
• Serve warm or cold. Decorate with black olives, capers, cherry tomatoes and onion rings.
• NOTE: Mirj suggested to add some lemon zest to the lentil puree. Thank you Mirj, I think this is a great idea to support a fresh note.