Baked Lentils with Cheese

Ingredients and Weight:

• Lentils: 500g
• Cheese: 200g (your choice of type, such as cheddar or Swiss)
• Butter: 50g
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground)
• Thyme: 1 tablespoon (dried)
• Chicken broth or vegetable broth: 1 cup
• Breadcrumbs: 50g (for topping)

Preparation Time: 45 minutes (includes preparation and cooking time)

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty Level: 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Soak the lentils in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
3. In a baking dish, combine the lentils, cheese, butter, salt, pepper, thyme, and chicken broth. Mix well.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top, and bake for another 10 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
6. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving (based on using 1 cup cooked lentils and the ingredients listed)
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 18g

Dish Characteristics:

• This dish combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the rich taste of cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
• The dish is hearty and filling, making it a great option for a main course or as a side dish for a special meal.
• The use of breadcrumbs on top provides a crispy contrast to the creamy cheese and soft lentils.

User Comments:

1. "The combination of lentils and cheese was unexpected but really delicious!"
2. "This dish was so filling and satisfying, perfect for a cold winter night."
3. "I loved the crispy breadcrumbs on top, they added a nice texture to the dish."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use dried lentils and not canned ones for this recipe. Canned lentils may be too soft and will not hold their shape when baked.
• Adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference for a richer or more mild flavor.
• If you want to add more texture to the dish, consider adding diced ham or cooked bacon bits.