Barbecue Lentils

Barbecue Lentils are a unique and flavorful side dish that can be served alongside grilled meats or taken to a picnic or tailgate party. Made with lentils, onions, diced tomatoes, and a tangy sauce, these lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. The slow cooker method ensures that the lentils cook to a tender and creamy texture while allowing the flavors to meld together.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1½ cups (355 ml) water
• 1 cup (192 g) lentils
• ½ cup (80 g) chopped onion
• 1 can (14 ounces, or 400 g) no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tablespoon (20 g) chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard
• 2 slices low-sodium bacon, cooked and crumbled

PREPARATION:

1. In a saucepan, bring water, lentils, and chopped onion to a boil. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.
2. Transfer the cooked lentils and onions to a slow cooker. Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, chili sauce, brown sugar, and dry mustard. Mix well to combine.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and the lentils to become tender.
4. Uncover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
5. Before serving, top the barbecue lentils with the crumbled cooked bacon.

YIELD: 6 servings

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• 159 g water
• 88 calories (13% from fat, 20% from protein, 66% from carbs)
• 5 g protein
• 1 g total fat
• 0 g saturated fat
• 1 g monounsaturated fat
• 0 g polyunsaturated fat
• 15 g carbs
• 4 g fiber
• 7 g sugar
• 91 mg phosphorus
• 37 mg calcium
• 2 mg iron
• 35 mg sodium
• 298 mg potassium
• 123 IU vitamin A
• 0 mg ATE vitamin E
• 8 mg vitamin C
• 3 mg cholesterol

TIPS:

• To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon or tempeh bacon.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili sauce used.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Serve the barbecue lentils as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, pork, or beef. They also pair well with cornbread or a fresh salad.
• Leftover lentils can be refrigerated and enjoyed as a protein-packed topping for salads or as a filling for wraps and sandwiches.
• For additional flavor, you can add diced bell peppers or minced garlic to the lentils during cooking.

Barbecue Lentils are a delicious and nutritious side dish that adds a touch of smoky flavor to any meal. Packed with protein and fiber from lentils, these lentils are not only tasty but also provide essential nutrients. The slow cooker method allows the lentils to cook slowly, resulting in a creamy texture and allowing the flavors to meld together.

The combination of lentils, diced tomatoes, chili sauce, brown sugar, and dry mustard creates a tangy and slightly sweet sauce that complements the earthy taste of the lentils. The addition of cooked and crumbled bacon adds a savory note, but it can be omitted for a vegetarian or vegan version of the dish.

Barbecue Lentils are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. They make a fantastic side dish to accompany grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or beef. The smoky flavors of the lentils pair perfectly with the charred flavors of grilled meats, creating a delicious and satisfying combination.

These lentils are also excellent for picnics or tailgate parties, as they can be served at room temperature and are easily transportable. They can be enjoyed on their own as a protein-packed vegetarian main dish or as a filling for wraps and sandwiches.

For those who enjoy spiciness, the amount of chili sauce can be adjusted to suit personal preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili sauce. Conversely, for a bolder kick, increase the chili sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Leftover Barbecue Lentils can be refrigerated and reheated for later enjoyment. They can also be repurposed as a protein-rich topping for salads or as a filling for stuffed peppers. The flavors of the lentils will continue to develop, making the leftovers even more delicious.

In conclusion, Barbecue Lentils are a delightful and flavorful side dish that combines the goodness of lentils with a tangy and slightly sweet barbecue sauce. The slow cooker method ensures that the lentils are tender and infused with the flavors of the sauce. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a main course, Barbecue Lentils are sure to please both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.