Snobby Joes

I found this recipe on the web when I searched for cheap vegan meals. It looked easy, so I decided to give it a try.

This is my first experience cooking with lentils. I wasn't sure what to expect, mostly because I can't even recall  eating a lentil until now. And to tell the truth, I was a little scared. Beans can be a little frightening. But, I'm happy to report, am very satisfied with the out come. This dish is tasty and filling.

1 cup uncooked lentils 

4 cups water 

1 tblsp olive oil 

1 medium yellow onion, small dice 

1 green bell pepper, small dice 

2 cloves garlic, minced 

3 tblsp chili powder 

2 tsp oregano 

1 tsp salt 

1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce 

1/4 cup tomato paste 

3 tblsp maple syrup 

1 tblsp prepared yellow mustard

Directions

1. Pour the lentils and water into a small saucepan. Cover and bring to a boil; once the mixture is boiling, lower the heat and simmer for ~ 20 minutes, until the lentils are soft. Drain and set aside.

2. About 10 mins before the lentils are done, preheat a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Saute the onion and pepper in the oil for about 7 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and saute for a minute more.

3. Stir in the cooked lentils, chili powder, oregan, and salt. Add the tomato sauce and tomato paste. Cook for about 10 minutes. Add the maple syrup and mustard and heat through.

4. Turn off the heat and let the pot sit on the warm burner for about 10 minutes so that the flavors can meld.