Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils, rinsed; 1 cup rice; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Kitchen

I love how this Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice brings comfort and warmth to the dinner table. The combination of tender lentils, fluffy rice, and a luscious tomato sauce melds together beautifully, creating a dish that feels both hearty and indulgent. It's perfect for weeknight meals or special gatherings. Plus, I appreciate that it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Let me share with you how I make this delightful dish that everyone raves about.

Created by

Winifred Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:57:35.695Z

Cooking this Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice brings back fond memories of family dinners where laughter and delicious food filled the room. I found that simmering the lentils in the tomato sauce allows their earthy flavors to really shine. The key is not to rush the process; letting the ingredients meld together creates the perfect creamy texture.

When I first made this dish, I experimented with different herbs and spices. A touch of smoked paprika and a sprinkle of fresh basil elevate the taste profile significantly. Trust me, a dollop of yogurt on top takes it to the next level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights
Packed with protein and fiber, healthy and satisfying

Mastering the Cooking Technique

One of the key techniques for achieving that creamy texture in this Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice is to monitor the cooking process closely. After adding the lentils and rice, keep the heat at a gentle simmer. This softens the lentils and rice without overcooking them, ensuring they remain intact and absorb the flavorful broth. Stir occasionally, especially towards the end of the cooking time, to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

By adding the rice later in the cooking process, you allow the lentils to cook through first, which enhances the dish's overall texture. The rice will absorb the rich tomato and broth flavors while cooking in harmony with the lentils, creating a cohesive dish. Remember to taste during the final minutes; this feedback is essential for achieving that perfect balance of doneness.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Lentils are not only a great source of protein but also add a wonderful earthy flavor to this dish. For best results, I recommend using green or brown lentils, as they hold their shape better than red lentils, which can become mushy too quickly. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute canned lentils or even chickpeas, which will still provide that hearty texture.

The smoked paprika in this recipe is crucial for adding depth and a subtle smokiness. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of cumin can provide a different, but still enjoyable flavor profile. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your available ingredients while still maintaining its comforting essence.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice makes for excellent leftovers and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. To prolong its freshness, let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also freeze portions for up to three months. When reheating, I suggest adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to revive its creamy texture.

For a quick dinner later in the week, you can prep the lentils and rice ahead of time. Cook them separately and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to combine them with the tomato sauce. When ready to serve, simply warm them up together in a pot, stirring in any additional seasonings or broth as needed. This approach saves time while keeping the flavors vibrant.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal!

Main Ingredients

1 cup lentils, rinsed
1 cup rice
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

These ingredients will come together to make a nourishing dish.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your meal.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Lentils

Add rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), smoked paprika, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.

Add Rice and Simmer

Stir in the rice and continue to simmer for an additional 15 minutes, or until the lentils and rice are tender. Add water if needed to ensure a creamy consistency.

Season and Serve

Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil and a dollop of yogurt if desired.

Now you have a comforting meal ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of coconut milk just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this dish further, consider topping your Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream. This addition will introduce a cool and tangy contrast that balances the rich, hearty flavors of the lentils and tomatoes. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can also enhance the visual appeal and freshness, providing a burst of color on your plate.

For a little extra crunch, add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds as a garnish. These toppings not only add texture but also introduce a delightful nuttiness that complements the dish beautifully. Serve alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal that is both hearty and healthful.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe by incorporating seasonal vegetables. Diced zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots can be sautéed alongside the onions for added flavor and nutrition. These additions not only offer color but also enhance the dish's healthfulness, making it even more satisfying.

For a southwestern twist, you could substitute the diced tomatoes with roasted tomatoes or even add a bit of corn and black beans for a more hearty, multi-textured dish. Spicing it up with a dash of cayenne or chili powder can also introduce a delightful heat that many may find enjoyable.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your dish has become too thick during cooking, this is easily remedied by adding a bit more vegetable broth or water. Stir and let it simmer for a couple more minutes to ensure everything is heated through and the ingredients are well combined. Achieving a creamy consistency is key, and a little liquid can go a long way in ensuring everything melds together.

Conversely, if your lentils and rice are undercooked and too firm, consider extending the cooking time slightly and adding a splash more broth. This not only softens the grains but also allows them to absorb more flavor, contributing to the dish's overall heartiness and depth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and does not include any animal products.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and reheat it. Just add a little water to loosen it up when reheating.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice?

It pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread, making it a complete meal!