FRENCH LENTILS WITH GARLIC AND THYME

French Lentils With Garlic and Thyme image

This is a classic French way to cook lentils, and it's very easy. Aromatics are sautéed and then simmered with French lentils, also known as Le Puy lentils, for 20 to 25 minutes. It is an easy side dish (shown here with cod baked with prosciutto), redolent of a Provencal feast.

Provided by Nigella Lawson

Time 40m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil
1 onion, peeled and finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped
1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped
2 1/4 cups French lentils
1 teaspoon dried or fresh thyme
3 bay leaves
1 tablespoon kosher salt

Steps:

Place a large saucepan over medium heat and add oil. When hot, add chopped vegetables and sauté until softened, 5 to 10 minutes.
Add 6 cups water, lentils, thyme, bay leaves and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a fast simmer.
Simmer lentils until they are tender and have absorbed most of the water, 20 to 25 minutes. If necessary, drain any excess water after lentils have cooked. Serve immediately, or allow them to cool and reheat later.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 330, UnsaturatedFat 7 grams, Carbohydrate 49 grams, Fat 8 grams, Fiber 8 grams, Protein 18 grams, SaturatedFat 1 gram, Sodium 259 milligrams, Sugar 3 grams, TransFat 0 grams