Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils, rinsed; 1 cup rice, rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Inspiration

I love how this Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice brings comfort and flavor together in such a delightful way. It’s incredibly simple to make, yet it never fails to impress family and friends around the dinner table. Each spoonful is a creamy blend of tender lentils and perfectly cooked rice, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce that is tantalizing to the taste buds. This dish not only satisfies my cravings but also works beautifully as a wholesome meal packed with nutrients.

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:01:35.194Z

I was inspired to create this recipe on a rainy evening when comfort food was calling my name. Playing with pantry staples, I discovered that lentils paired perfectly with tender rice and a creamy tomato base. After a few adjustments, I was thrilled with the result. The combination of flavors was rich and satisfying, making it a new favorite.

The key to the creaminess lies in adding coconut milk, which not only enhances the flavor but also brings a luxurious texture that coats every grain. I also love using fresh herbs for garnish; they elevate the dish and add a vibrant touch!

What You’ll Love About This Dish
Creamy texture that's filling and satisfying
Vibrant flavors from tomatoes and spices
Nutritious lentils make it a wholesome meal

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of lentils and rice not only provides a protein boost but also offers a variety of textures that enhance this dish's appeal. Lentils are packed with fiber and cook relatively quickly, making them a great counterpart to rice. Using a long-grain variety, like basmati or jasmine, will yield a fluffy texture that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the coconut milk. Remember to rinse both lentils and rice to remove excess starch and debris, leading to a cleaner-tasting dish.

Tomatoes serve as the primary source of acidity here, balancing out the rich coconut flavor. Opting for a can of diced tomatoes ensures consistent quality and flavor, but if you have fresh tomatoes on hand, about 2 cups of chopped ripe tomatoes can work beautifully. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust cooking time slightly, as fresh tomatoes can release more liquid into the dish.

Technique Tips for Perfect Creaminess

To achieve the ideal creamy texture, it's crucial not to rush the simmering stage. Start with a boil, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting and cover the pot. This slow cooking allows the lentils and rice to absorb the flavors of the spices and the richness of the coconut milk effectively. If you find the dish too thick after cooking, you can stir in a splash of vegetable broth or more coconut milk until you reach your desired consistency.

For the best flavor, don’t skip the sautéing step for the onions and garlic. Cooking them until translucent not only enhances their sweetness but also forms a flavor base that’ll deepen the overall taste of the dish. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili during the sauté.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish.

Ingredients

1 cup lentils, rinsed
1 cup rice, rinsed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

With everything prepped, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy, delicious meal.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add Lentils and Rice

Stir in the rinsed lentils and rice, mixing well to coat with the onion and garlic mixture.

Combine with Tomatoes and Coconut Milk

Pour in the diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes, or until lentils and rice are tender and creamy.

Final Touches

Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Enjoy your Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice warm for a fulfilling meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh lemon juice just before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice dish is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Just be aware that the lentils and rice may soak up more of the liquid as they sit. When reheating, add a bit of coconut milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency before heating it in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally.

If you’re looking to batch cook, doubling the recipe is an excellent idea. Just ensure you have a pot large enough to accommodate the increased volume. The cooking time remains roughly the same, but you might need to extend it slightly, so keep an eye on the texture of the lentils and rice.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful finishing touch, I recommend serving this dish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley, which brightens the deep flavors of the dish. Accompany it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A dash of lemon juice can also elevate the flavors, cut through the creaminess, and add a refreshing twist.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider topping this creamy base with roasted vegetables or a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor. This dish also pairs wonderfully with warm naan or crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice has a longer cooking time. You'll need to adjust the liquid and cooking duration accordingly.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan meal option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.