Recipe: Spicy red lentils

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups dried red lentils, picked over, rinsed and drained
• 3 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 serrano chili, seeded and finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf (Italian) parsley
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (fresh coriander)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Directions

In a saucepan over high heat, combine the lentils, water, bay leaf and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially and simmer until the lentils are tender but still firm, 12 to 14 minutes. Drain and discard the bay leaf. Set aside.

In a small frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chili and garlic and saute until softened, about 1 minute. Add the cumin, coriander and cinnamon and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat.

In a large bowl, combine the lentils and the spice mixture. Toss gently to mix. Stir in the parsley, cilantro and mint and season with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and the pepper. Stir in the vinegar and serve immediately.