Growing up, my mom would make this lentils with cinnamon brown sugar dish at least once a month. I can still remember the aroma of the cinnamon and brown sugar wafting through the house, instantly making my mouth water. It was always such a comforting, satisfying meal – the kind that wraps you up in a big, warm hug. Even today, whenever I make this recipe, it transports me right back to those nostalgic family dinners.
What I love most about this lentils with cinnamon brown sugar dish is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With just 15 minutes from start to finish, it’s the perfect weeknight meal when you want something hearty and delicious without a lot of fuss. The combination of earthy lentils, aromatic cinnamon, and rich brown sugar creates such a wonderful depth of flavor. It’s seriously one of my go-to recipes anytime I need a cozy, comforting meal.
Why This Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar
The secret to this lentils with cinnamon brown sugar recipe is all in the technique. By simmering the lentils in a mixture of broth, brown sugar, and spices, you end up with incredibly flavorful, tender lentils that are the perfect base for this dish. The brown sugar caramelizes slightly, adding a lovely sweetness that’s beautifully balanced by the warm cinnamon and a touch of salt and pepper. It’s a flavor combination that’s both comforting and craveworthy.
What really sets this recipe apart, though, is the fact that it all comes together in just 15 minutes. That means you can enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal in no time at all – perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nourishing and satisfying without a lot of effort.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this lentils with cinnamon brown sugar recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed – The earthy, protein-packed lentils are the star of this dish, providing a hearty base.
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth – The broth helps cook the lentils to tender perfection while infusing them with extra flavor.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – This sweetener caramelizes slightly as the lentils simmer, adding a lovely depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The warm, aromatic cinnamon is the perfect complement to the brown sugar.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Just a touch of black pepper adds a subtle kick of heat.
With these straightforward ingredients, you can create a truly delicious and comforting lentil dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Step-by-Step Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar Instructions
Preparing Your Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar
This lentils with cinnamon brown sugar recipe comes together quickly, with a prep time of just 5 minutes and a cook time of 10 minutes for a total time of 15 minutes. All you’ll need is a medium saucepan and a few basic kitchen tools.
1- Start by rinsing the lentils in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any debris. This will help ensure your lentils cook up nice and tender.
2- In the saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils, broth, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the lentils simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
4- You’ll know the lentils are ready when they’re soft and creamy, with a gorgeous golden-brown color from the caramelized brown sugar.
5- For the finishing touches, give the lentils a final stir to incorporate all the flavors.
6- Serve the lentils with cinnamon brown sugar warm, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon if desired. This recipe makes 4 servings, so it’s perfect for a family dinner or easy meal prep.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your lentils with cinnamon brown sugar turn out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris. This will help them cook up nice and tender.
- Be sure to use medium-high heat to bring the mixture to a boil initially, then reduce to low heat to let the lentils simmer gently. This gentle simmering is key for achieving the perfect texture.
- Keep a close eye on the lentils towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from overcooking and becoming mushy.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste – if you want a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, feel free to add an extra 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon.
Serving and Storing Your Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar
Perfect Pairings for Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar
These lentils with cinnamon brown sugar make a wonderfully satisfying main dish, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a simple, comforting meal, serve them alongside some steamed or roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans. They also go great with a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread for sopping up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
And don’t forget the drinks! A glass of crisp white wine or a mug of warm apple cider would be the perfect accompaniment to this cozy dish. Of course, this recipe yields 4 servings, so it’s perfect for a family dinner or an easy meal prep option.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Lentils with cinnamon brown sugar are fantastic for meal prep and make-ahead meals. Once cooked, the lentils will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply transfer the lentils to a saucepan and warm them over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if they seem dry.
This recipe also freezes beautifully. Let the cooked lentils cool completely, then portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the lentils in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar
Creative Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar Variations
While the classic lentils with cinnamon brown sugar is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish:
- Try using different types of lentils, such as red or green, for a change of texture and flavor.
- Add in some diced apples or pears for a touch of sweetness and extra moisture.
- Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
- Top the lentils with a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley for a bright, herbal note.
- For a heartier meal, serve the lentils over a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice.
Making Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar Diet-Friendly
This lentils with cinnamon brown sugar recipe is naturally gluten-free, and it can also be made vegan or low-carb with a few simple tweaks:
- To make it vegan, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- For a low-carb version, you can substitute the brown sugar with a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- If you’re watching your carb intake, you can serve the lentils over a bed of steamed cauliflower rice instead of regular rice or quinoa.
No matter which dietary restrictions you may have, this versatile lentil dish can be easily adapted to fit your needs while still delivering all the comforting, cinnamon-spiced flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of lentil in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for brown lentils, you can easily substitute red, green, or black lentils. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the lentil variety.
Q: How long does this recipe take to make?
A: This lentils with cinnamon brown sugar recipe has a total prep and cook time of just 15 minutes. The prep time is 5 minutes, and the cook time is 10 minutes.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! The cooked lentils will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the lentils for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This lentils with cinnamon brown sugar recipe makes 4 servings.
Q: What if the lentils seem too dry or too wet?
A: If the lentils seem too dry, simply add a splash of broth or water and continue simmering until they reach the desired consistency. If they seem too wet, let them simmer a bit longer, uncovered, to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Warm, fragrant lentils simmered in a cinnamon-infused brown sugar broth for a quick and comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and broth. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of vegetable. You can also add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end for a touch of acidity.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Soups, Stews & Chili
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Lentils with cinnamon brown sugar is such a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or easy meal prep. With its winning combination of earthy lentils, warm cinnamon, and rich brown sugar, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen. And the best part is, it all comes together in just 15 minutes!
I hope you’ll give this lentils with cinnamon brown sugar a try – I’m confident it’ll become a new family favorite in your home, too. Let me know what you think in the comments below, and be sure to share this recipe with your loved ones. Enjoy!
