Indian Lentils with Quinoa

There are two types of people in this world. Those who own a cat and those who do not.

It is very easy to tell these two types apart.

Those who do not own cats will smile politely while you drone on about how your cat runs into your room every time it hears your alarm or how without fail it will sit on anything rectangular be it your computer, a stack of magazines or a piece of paper on the floor. They will pretend to be listening but on the inside they're wondering, 'how long until I can just walk away from this?'

Those who own cats, well they just get it. They understand what its like when your cat insists on spilling food into its fresh water. They laugh in that 'been there, done that' sort of way as you complain about your cat dragging toilet paper down the hallways. And they can certainly sympathize when your cat spills food all over your furniture, staining it for all eternity.

Rudy + turmeric dyed lentils + no supervision = very bad decision on Mom's part.

So if your one of those people who owns a cat make sure you keep your eyes on this recipe at all times. If you do not own a cat you may still have to watch out for roommate, boyfriend, brother, sister, random stranger who might steal the pot when your back is turned.

I've had a mild food aversion to Indian food after an unfortunate case of norovirus, but this is the perfect recipe to ease back into Indian flavors. If you have family members or friends who can't stomach the full curry experience, this is the dish for them.

I really should eat lentils more often. Heck, everyone should eat lentils more often. They are a cinch to cook, they're packed with iron, protein and fiber. No saturated fat, I mean do I really need to go on? When paired with quinoa, the grain superstar...well let's just say your body is going to love you. Last week I binged on pizza and doughnuts, but after a few bowls of this stuff I'm back into fighting shape.

Eye of the tiger, dah, dah dah dah...

And by the way if you're struggling to find red lentils at your grocery store, Trader Joe's has a decent sized bag for I think $1.99. Which is a steal.

I'm always looking for new recipes that feature lentils, so if you one to pass on leave me a comment!

Indian Lentils with Quinoa 
Slightly Adapted from Meatless

1 t. cumin
1 T. olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 t. dried minced garlic (or 4 gloves fresh garlic, minced)
2 T. ginger, minced
1 t. turmeric
1/2 t. curry powder
1/2 t. graham masala
2 cups dried red lentils
1 cup dry quinoa

1. In a large pot heat oil over medium heat. Add cumin, onions, minced garlic and ginger. Stir to combine. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add turmeric, curry powder and graham masala. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add 5 cups of water and the lentils. Bring to boil and then reduce to simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes.
4. In a medium sauce pan combine quinoa with 1.25 cups water. Bring mixture to boil, then reduce to simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until all water has been absorbed.
5. To serve add 1/2 cup quinoa to bowl and top w/ 1/2 cup lentil mixture. Top with tzatziki if you'd like. Keep an eye out for cats and enjoy! 

What I'm Listening to Today 
Reminds Me of You: Van Morrison 
Breath of Life: Florence + the Machine 
Blood Red Sentimental Blues: Cotton Jones 

For you cat people that need a laugh.

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