Lentils with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

Method5 steps

1. 1

   Step 1: Mince the garlic (2 cloves) and slice the mushrooms (8 oz). Add the olive oil (2 Tbsp) and garlic to a large skillet and sauté for about one minute. Add the sliced mushrooms and continue to sauté until the mushrooms have released all their moisture and begin to brown.

   Uses 2 cloves garlic · 8 oz mushrooms · 2 Tbsp olive oil

   
2. 2

   Step 2: Add the lentils, sage, thyme, freshly cracked pepper, and vegetable broth (2 cups) to the skillet with the mushrooms. Stir to combine. Place a lid on the skillet, let the broth come up to a boil, then turn the heat down to medium-low. Let the lentils simmer for 20 minutes (with lid), stirring occasionally. Check that the lentils are tender after 20 minutes. If still firm, continue simmering covered until tender, adding a little hot water only if the pan becomes dry.

   Check lentils after20 minutes; continue until tender · 20 minUses sautéed mushrooms and garlic · 1 cup brown lentils · 1/2 tsp dried thyme · 3/4 tsp rubbed dried sage · Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste · 2 cups vegetable broth · A little hot water, only if lentils need more liquid

   
3. 3

   Step 3: Once the lentils are tender and most of the broth has been absorbed, add the coconut milk, stir to combine, turn the heat back up to medium, and let the lentils simmer for about five more minutes (without lid), or until the mixture in the skillet has thickened to a gravy.

   Uses tender lentils and mushrooms · 1 13.5-oz can coconut milk

4. 4

   Step 4: Once the mixture has thickened, turn the heat off. Taste the mixture and add salt (to taste) to your liking. I added about 1/2 tsp. The salt will help the herbal flavors pop and reduce the sweetness of the coconut milk.

   Uses lentils in thickened coconut gravy · salt to taste, about 1/2 tsp

5. 5

   Step 5: Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping or over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

   Uses seasoned lentils and gravy · Crusty bread, optional for serving · Prepared mashed potatoes, optional for serving · Cooked rice, optional for serving · Cooked pasta, optional for serving