Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 cup green lentils, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup heavy cream; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice! It's a comforting dish that never fails to impress. The rich creaminess combines perfectly with the earthy lentils and fragrant garlic, making it a satisfying meal. I appreciate how easy it is to prepare, yet it feels indulgent. Whether paired with a fresh salad or enjoyed on its own, this recipe fits any occasion. I've made it numerous times for family gatherings, and the compliments keep rolling in. Trust me; this dish will become a staple in your kitchen too!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:07:11.352Z

In my quest to create the perfect comfort food, I stumbled upon this Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice. The combination of creamy texture and the savory aroma of garlic takes this dish to another level. I tinkered with various spices and cooking techniques, and I found that a touch of vegetable broth makes all the difference without overpowering the dish.

What really sets this recipe apart is the use of green lentils, which hold their shape beautifully while adding a hearty element to the rice. Cooking them together enhances the flavors, making every bite truly delightful. Plus, it's a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based ingredients into my meals!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture enriched by garlic and spices
Nutritious lentils provide a hearty base
Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides

      

Perfecting the Creaminess

The key to achieving the ideal creamy texture in Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice lies in the balance of heavy cream and broth. I recommend gradually incorporating the heavy cream after cooking the lentils and rice to control the creaminess level. If it feels too thick, a splash of extra broth can smooth it out without compromising flavor. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter dish, feel free to reduce the amount of cream or substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Make sure to use fresh garlic, as its flavor is essential to the dish's aromatic profile. When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning; it should turn slightly golden but not darker. This stage infuses the olive oil with garlic flavor, contributing to the rich taste of the final dish.

Ingredient Insights

Green lentils are used in this recipe due to their firm texture and earthy flavor. They hold up well during cooking and provide a nutritious foundation rich in protein and fiber. If you don't have green lentils on hand, brown lentils are a suitable alternative, although they may become softer and slightly mushy if overcooked. This difference means adjusting your cooking time may be necessary—start at 15 minutes for brown lentils and check for doneness.

For the rice, jasmine rice not only adds a delicate fragrance but also cooks to a tender fluff that complements the creamy lentils. If jasmine rice isn't available, basmati rice could work as a substitute, offering a similar fluffy texture but with a nuttier taste. However, keep in mind that basmati may require slight adjustments to liquid ratios depending on the brand you use.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious meal.

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup green lentils, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup heavy cream
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything measured out and ready to go for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice.

Cook the lentils and rice

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent. Stir in the lentils, jasmine rice, and vegetable broth.

Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils and rice are tender.

Add cream and season

Once the lentils and rice are cooked, stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve and garnish

Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice!

This simple process will yield a flavorful and creamy dish that everyone will love!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider including a splash of lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice serves beautifully as a stand-alone dish but pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad to complement its richness, or roasted vegetables that can add additional textures and flavors. If you're hosting a gathering, a light cucumber and yogurt salad can act as a refreshing counterpoint to the dish's creaminess.

For an added protein boost, try topping the creamy lentil rice with grilled chicken or marinated tofu. Simply season your protein of choice, grill it until cooked through, and place it atop the rice just before serving. This not only elevates the meal but also makes it more filling and satisfying.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, as its flavors improve over time. If you're planning to make it ahead, cook and allow the Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 4 days when stored properly, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays.

When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the pan to revive that creamy consistency, as the rice tends to absorb moisture over time. Heat it slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method prevents it from scorching while ensuring every bite is as delicious as the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, salads, or roasted chicken.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

You can, but keep in mind that different lentils have different cooking times and textures.