Syrian noodles with lentils

6 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
2tablespoonsVegetable oil
1eachOnion, chopped
3eachesGarlic cloves, pressed
2teaspoonsRoasted cumin seeds, ground
1teaspoonRoasted coriander, ground
2smallsCayenne peppers
2cupsLentils, washed
1eachBay leaf
7cupsWater
Salt & pepper
4ouncesBroken vermicelli

Directions

Heat oil in a large casserole. Saute onion & garlic until the onion is tender. Add cumin & coriander. Saute for another minute over medium heat.

Add cayenne pepper, lentils, bay leaf & water. Bring to a boil. Add salt & pepper to taste, cover, reduce heat & simmer for 45 minutes.

Simmer only until the lentils are just tender. Adjust seasonings.

Just before serving, bring back to a simmer & add the noodles. Cook until al dente, about 4 to 10 minutes. Serve at once in bowls.

In place of vermicelli, use wholewheat spaghetti noodles or macaroni.

Martha Rose Shulman, "Spicy Vegetarian Feasts"