Name: Lentils and Rice with Eggs and Bacon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup carrots; 1½ cups small green lentils; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 cup water; ½ tsp olive oil; ¾ cup tomato; ⅓ cup scallion; 1 clove garlic; For Serving:; 7½ cups brown rice; 5 large eggs; 5 slices center cut bacon; 2 tbsp scallion; kosher salt

This delicious recipe combines the hearty flavors of lentils and brown rice with the rich taste of eggs and bacon. It’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal at any time of the day.

Photos of Lentils and Rice with Eggs and Bacon Recipe

If you don’t commonly stock small green lentils, bay leaf, or scallions in your pantry, you’ll need to pick these up at the supermarket. These ingredients contribute to the depth of flavor in this dish.

Ingredients for Lentils and Rice with Eggs and Bacon

carrots: Add sweetness and texture to the dish.

small green lentils: Provide a hearty base with plenty of protein and fiber.

chicken broth: Adds rich flavor to the lentils as they cook.

bay leaf: Infuses the lentils with depth and subtle herbal notes.

water: Ensures the lentils have enough liquid to cook properly.

olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and scallions, adding a slight richness.

tomato: Adds acidity and brightness to the lentil mixture.

scallion: Provides a mild onion flavor and freshness.

garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic touch to the dish.

brown rice: A nutritious and hearty base to serve the lentils on.

eggs: Adds a creamy texture and richness when chopped over the lentils and rice.

center cut bacon: Adds a smoky and savory element.

kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.

One reader, Brett Noland says:

This lentils and rice with eggs and bacon recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The hearty lentils and rice pair perfectly with the savory bacon and creamy eggs. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that's easy to prepare. Highly recommend!

Brett Noland

Techniques Required

How to cook lentils: Combine lentils with liquid and simmer until tender. How to sauté vegetables: Heat oil in a skillet, add vegetables, and cook until softened. How to cook rice: Boil rice in water until tender and fluffy. How to cook eggs: Boil or fry eggs until desired doneness. How to cook bacon: Fry bacon in a skillet until crispy.

How To Make Lentils Eggs and Bacon Rice Bowls Recipe

Enjoy a mouthful of these hearty rice bowls mixed with lentils, eggs, bacon, and veggies! It’s also healthy and easy to make for the whole family.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupcarrots,chopped
1½cupssmall green lentils,rinsed well
4cupschicken broth,low sodium
1bay leaf
1cupwater
½tspolive oil
¾cuptomato,diced
⅓cupscallion,chopped
1clovegarlic,minced

For Serving:

7½cupsbrown rice,cooked
5large eggs,hard boiled, chopped
5slicescenter cut bacon,cooked
2tbspscallion,chopped
kosher salt,to taste

Instructions

Combine the carrots, lentils, broth, bay leaf, and water in a large pot or Dutch oven.
Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat to low for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat with oil. Add the oil, scallions, and garlic, and cook for 2½ minutes.
Add the tomatoes, salt, and pepper and cook for 2½ minutes, stirring.
Stir into the lentils after being cooked for 30 minutes, then cook covered for an additional 10 minutes.
To serve, ladle ⅔ cup of lentils over ¾ cup of rice.
Top with ½ chopped egg, ½ slice of chopped bacon, scallions, and salt to taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 733.74kcal
Fat: 13.62g
Saturated Fat: 3.86g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.60g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.15g
Carbohydrates: 128.06g
Fiber: 7.77g
Sugar: 3.17g
Protein: 23.72g
Cholesterol: 105.45mg
Sodium: 818.09mg
Calcium: 82.68mg
Potassium: 771.81mg
Iron: 4.84mg
Vitamin A: 152.00µg
Vitamin C: 4.39mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Lentils and Rice With Eggs and Bacon

To enhance the flavor of your bacon, cook it in the skillet first and use the rendered fat to sauté the scallions and garlic. This will infuse the dish with a deeper, smoky flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Lentils and Rice With Eggs and Bacon

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop carrots, scallions, and garlic the night before to save time.

Use canned tomatoes: Opt for canned tomatoes instead of fresh to cut down on prep time.

Cook rice in bulk: Prepare a large batch of brown rice in advance and store it in the fridge.

Batch cook bacon: Cook all bacon slices at once and store them for easy assembly.

Quick boil eggs: Boil eggs in advance and keep them in the fridge for quick use.

Substitute Ingredients For Lentils and Rice with Eggs and Bacon Recipe

carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative to carrots.
small green lentils - Substitute with brown lentils: Brown lentils have a similar cooking time and texture, making them a suitable replacement.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides a similar depth of flavor and is a good option for vegetarians.
bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme offers a different but complementary aromatic flavor to the dish.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Using vegetable broth instead of water can add more flavor to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
tomato - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers provide a similar sweetness and color to the dish.
scallion - Substitute with leek: Leeks have a mild onion flavor and can be used in place of scallions.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweeter flavor compared to garlic.
brown rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a high-protein grain that cooks similarly to brown rice and offers a different texture.
eggs - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be scrambled and seasoned to mimic the texture and protein content of eggs.
center cut bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative that still provides a smoky flavor.
scallion - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same quantities.

Presenting Lentils and Rice With Eggs and Bacon

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present a delicate portion of lentils and rice in a shallow, wide-rimmed bowl to highlight the dish's colors and textures.
Use decoration: Garnish with finely chopped scallions and a light drizzle of olive oil around the edge of the plate for a touch of elegance.
Highlight the protein: Place a perfectly poached egg on top of the lentils and rice, ensuring the yolk is slightly runny to add richness to the dish.
Crisp the bacon: Cook the bacon until it's crispy, then crumble it over the dish for a contrasting texture and a burst of flavor.
Balance the colors: Use vibrant, finely diced tomatoes and carrots to add pops of color, making the dish visually appealing.
Layer the flavors: Ensure each bite includes a bit of lentils, rice, egg, and bacon to provide a harmonious blend of flavors.
Season to perfection: Finish with a sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Use a bay leaf for aroma: Place a single bay leaf on the side of the plate as a subtle aromatic element, which can be removed before eating.
Serve with a side: Accompany the dish with a small side of lightly dressed scallions to add a fresh, crisp element to the meal.
Maintain cleanliness: Ensure the plate is spotless, with no smudges or spills, to present a professional and refined dish.

Essential Tools for Making This Recipe

large pot or dutch oven: Used to cook the lentils, carrots, broth, bay leaf, and water mixture.
large skillet: Used to sauté the scallions, garlic, and tomatoes.
ladle: Used to serve the lentils over the rice.
measuring cups: Used to measure ingredients like carrots, lentils, broth, water, tomatoes, and rice.
measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like olive oil and kosher salt.
cutting board: Used to chop the carrots, scallions, garlic, and bacon.
knife: Used for chopping the vegetables and bacon.
spatula: Used to stir the ingredients in the skillet.
mixing spoon: Used to stir the lentils and other ingredients in the pot.
egg cooker or saucepan: Used to cook the eggs.
bacon cooker or skillet: Used to cook the bacon slices.
serving bowls: Used to serve the final dish.
timer: Used to keep track of cooking times for various steps.

How To Store and Freeze This Dish

Let the lentils and rice cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 4-5 days.
If you want to freeze the lentils and rice, portion them into individual serving sizes and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label the containers with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen lentils and rice, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
It's best to store the eggs and bacon separately from the lentils and rice. Keep the eggs in their shell in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, and store the cooked bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
When you're ready to serve, reheat the lentils and rice and then top with freshly cooked eggs and bacon for the best texture and flavor.
If you have leftover scallions, wrap them in a damp paper towel and store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 5 days.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Stovetop method: place the leftover lentils and rice in a saucepan over medium heat. add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten the dish and prevent it from drying out. stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. while reheating, you can also add a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor and richness. once hot, transfer to a serving plate and top with the reserved eggs and bacon.
Microwave method: transfer the leftover lentils and rice to a microwave-safe dish. add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten the dish. cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. cooking times may vary depending on the power of your microwave and the amount of leftovers. once hot, top with the reserved eggs and bacon.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). transfer the leftover lentils and rice to an oven-safe dish and add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten the dish. cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to slightly crisp up. once hot, top with the reserved eggs and bacon.
Reheating eggs and bacon: for best results, reheat the eggs and bacon separately from the lentils and rice. you can reheat the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, or in the microwave on a paper towel-lined plate for 20-30 seconds. to reheat the eggs, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. alternatively, you can also fry a fresh egg to top your reheated lentils and rice.
Garnishes and additions: to add extra flavor and freshness to your reheated dish, consider topping it with fresh scallions, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of paprika. you can also add a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for a creamy, tangy element. if you like a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

Random Fact About Lentils and Rice With Eggs and Bacon

A random fact about this recipe is that it combines protein-rich lentils and eggs with fiber-packed brown rice and savory bacon, making it a balanced and nutritious meal.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this lentils and rice with eggs and bacon recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The use of affordable staples like brown rice, green lentils, and carrots makes it budget-friendly. The addition of chicken broth, scallions, and tomatoes adds flavor without significantly increasing costs. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20 USD, making it an economical choice for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. Let's break it down:

Healthy aspects:

Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various nutrients
Carrots provide beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins
Brown rice is a whole grain, offering more fiber and nutrients than white rice
Tomatoes and scallions add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Eggs are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals

Unhealthy aspects:

Bacon is high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure
The recipe lacks leafy greens or other non-starchy vegetables, which are important for a balanced meal
Depending on the amount of salt added, the dish may be high in sodium

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the bacon with a leaner protein source, such as grilled chicken or tofu
Increase the variety of vegetables by adding spinach, kale, or bell peppers to the lentil mixture
Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content
Incorporate healthy fats by adding sliced avocado or a drizzle of olive oil when serving
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on salt
Consider using a mix of brown and wild rice for added texture and nutrients
Serve the dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Recipe

This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, combining the earthiness of lentils with the richness of bacon and eggs. The use of chicken broth and bay leaf adds depth, while the fresh scallions and tomatoes provide a bright contrast. The method is straightforward, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve a satisfying dish. However, consider reducing the rice portion to let the lentils shine more prominently. Overall, it's a hearty, nutritious meal perfect for any time of day.

Enhance Your Lentils and Rice with Eggs and Bacon Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to your lentils and rice with eggs and bacon main course.

Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Elevate your meal with tender asparagus spears, roasted until they are slightly crispy and then sprinkled with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a hint of garlic. This side dish brings a savory and aromatic complement to your main course.

Citrus Avocado Salad: Brighten up your plate with a refreshing salad featuring juicy citrus segments, creamy avocado, and a light vinaigrette. The vibrant colors and flavors provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty lentils and rice.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a velvety butternut squash soup, infused with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. This comforting soup pairs beautifully with the earthy flavors of your main dish, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Berry Compote with Vanilla Yogurt: End your meal on a sweet note with a luscious berry compote served over creamy vanilla yogurt. The tartness of the berries and the smoothness of the yogurt create a delightful balance, making it a perfect dessert to complement your savory main course.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish

Spicy Chickpea And Spinach Stew: Dive into a hearty stew featuring chickpeas and spinach. This dish is spiced with a blend of aromatic cumin, coriander, and paprika, simmered to perfection in a rich tomato base. Serve it over fluffy basmati rice for a comforting meal.

Quinoa And Black Bean Stuffed Peppers: These vibrant bell peppers are stuffed with a savory mix of quinoa, black beans, and corn, seasoned with chili powder and cumin. Baked until tender and topped with melted cheese, they make a colorful and nutritious main course.

Mushroom And Barley Soup: Warm up with a bowl of this earthy soup, featuring a medley of mushrooms and pearl barley. Cooked in a savory vegetable broth with hints of thyme and rosemary, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in.

Sweet Potato And Black Bean Tacos: These tacos are a delightful blend of sweet and savory, featuring roasted sweet potatoes and seasoned black beans. Topped with fresh avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite.

Butternut Squash And Sage Risotto: Indulge in a creamy risotto made with tender butternut squash and fragrant sage. This dish is cooked slowly with arborio rice and finished with a touch of parmesan cheese for a rich and satisfying meal.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Lentils and Rice With Eggs and Bacon

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump, juicy mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The creaminess of the cheese pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, creating a harmonious bite that's both satisfying and elegant. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a textural delight. Serve these mushrooms warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Freshly toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar elevate the flavors, making each bite a burst of freshness. The crunchy bread contrasts beautifully with the juicy tomatoes, creating a delightful balance of textures. Perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in, this bruschetta is sure to impress.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the decadence of a Chocolate Lava Cake. Imagine a warm, molten center of rich chocolate that flows out as you take your first bite. The contrast between the gooey interior and the slightly crisp exterior creates a sensory experience that is unmatched. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra layer of luxury. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the zesty and refreshing flavors of a Lemon Meringue Pie. The tangy lemon curd is balanced by a light and fluffy meringue topping, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and tart. The crust adds a delightful crunch that complements the smooth filling. This dessert is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, offering a bright and cheerful end to any meal.

Why trust this Lentils and Rice with Eggs and Bacon Recipe:

This recipe combines the hearty flavors of lentils and brown rice with the savory taste of bacon and eggs. The use of chicken broth and a bay leaf adds depth to the dish, while carrots and tomatoes provide a fresh, vibrant touch. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof cooking process, making it easy for both novice and experienced cooks to create a delicious meal. Trust this recipe for its balanced blend of flavors and straightforward preparation.

Want to share your thoughts on this Lentils and Rice with Eggs and Bacon Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum section and join the discussion!

FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the lentils and rice with eggs and bacon?

The total cooking time is about 40 minutes for the lentils and an additional few minutes for the eggs and bacon. So, you’re looking at roughly an hour to get everything ready.

Can I use a different type of lentils?

Sure, you can use other types of lentils, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Small green lentils hold their shape well and cook relatively quickly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the bacon and maybe add some extra veggies or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can use white rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of rice you’re using, as white rice generally cooks faster than brown rice.