Savory Sherry Lentil Medley
Elevate your meatless meals with this hearty and flavorful Savory Sherry Lentil Medley! Inspired by the wisdom of monks who mastered the art of humble ingredients, this dish combines earthy lentils with fragrant herbs and rich stock. The addition of a splash of dry sherry enhances the depth of flavor, making it a perfect choice for cozy dinners. Serve it generously topped with melted cheese—Parmesan for a nutty kick or cheddar for a creamy finish—alongside freshly baked crusty bread to soak up every last drop. Perfect for a nourishing family feast or a rustic gathering with friends!
4
Servings
200
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1/4 cup (none)
large onions
2 (chopped)
carrot
1 (chopped)
dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon (none)
dried marjoram
1/2 teaspoon (none)
beef or vegetarian stock
3 cups (none)
dry lentils
1 cup (washed and sorted)
salt
to taste (none)
fresh parsley
1/4 cup (chopped (optional))
canned tomatoes
1 lb (crushed)
dry sherry
1/4 cup (none)
cheddar or Swiss cheese
to taste (grated or sliced for topping)
Instructions
1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and carrot, sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
2
Stir in the dried thyme and marjoram, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
3
Pour in the stock of your choice (beef or vegetarian), and then add the washed lentils, a pinch of salt, chopped parsley (if using), and the canned tomatoes, including their juice. Stir to combine.
4
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 35-45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
5
Just before serving, stir in the dry sherry and allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavors.
6
Ladle the lentil medley into bowls and top generously with your choice of cheese. Enjoy with crusty bread for a fulfilling meal.
Nutrition Information
7.5
Fat
25
Carbs
10
Protein
10
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Sherry Lentil Medley?
It is a hearty meatless dish featuring earthy lentils, fragrant herbs, rich stock, and a splash of dry sherry for depth of flavor.
What type of lentils are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for dry lentils that have been washed and sorted before cooking.
How long does it take to cook the lentils?
The lentils should simmer for approximately 35 to 45 minutes until they are tender and cooked through.
What is the purpose of adding dry sherry?
Dry sherry is added just before serving to enhance the depth and richness of the flavors in the medley.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes, by using vegetarian stock, the entire dish remains vegetarian and meatless.
What kind of cheese is recommended for the topping?
Cheddar, Swiss, or Parmesan cheese are all excellent choices to add a creamy or nutty finish.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
Is this recipe high in fiber?
Yes, it is quite high in fiber, providing 10 grams per serving.
What should I serve with this lentil medley?
It is best served with freshly baked crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
The dish is seasoned with dried thyme, dried marjoram, and optional fresh parsley.
Can I use beef stock instead of vegetable stock?
Yes, the recipe allows for either beef or vegetarian stock depending on your dietary preference.
What vegetables are included in the base?
The base is made from sautéed onions and carrots.
What type of canned tomatoes should I use?
The recipe specifies 1 pound of crushed canned tomatoes, including their juice.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 7.5 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein is in this dish?
Each serving provides 10 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 25 grams of carbohydrates in each serving.
Is olive oil used in this recipe?
Yes, 1/4 cup of olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables at the beginning of the process.
Do I need to boil the mixture?
Yes, you bring the mixture to a boil first, then reduce the heat to low and simmer while covered.
When do I add the herbs?
Stir in the dried thyme and marjoram after the onions and carrots have softened, cooking for about one minute until fragrant.
Is this recipe considered Mediterranean?
Yes, it is tagged as a Mediterranean-style dish.
Can I add the sherry at the beginning?
No, the sherry should be stirred in just before serving and cooked for only 2-3 minutes for the best flavor profile.
Is this a good meal for a family?
Yes, it is described as perfect for a nourishing family feast or a rustic gathering.
Are the lentils cooked covered or uncovered?
The lentils should be simmered while the pot is covered.
What size onion should I use?
The recipe calls for two large onions, chopped.
Is salt added to the recipe?
Yes, salt is added to taste along with the stock and lentils.
What category does this recipe fall under?
It falls under categories such as comfort food, hearty soup, and meatless meals.
Is the parsley required?
No, the 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley is listed as an optional ingredient.
What type of pot is best for this?
A large pot or a Dutch oven is recommended for cooking this medley.
How much sherry is needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of dry sherry.