Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Lentil Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (green or brown); 1 cup rice (basmati or jasmine); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Planning

I absolutely love indulging in this creamy garlic lentil rice dish. It’s packed with flavor and has a delightful creaminess that brings everything together so beautifully. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the garlic elevates the lentils and rice into a comforting meal. The best part? It's quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients that I often have on hand. This dish is perfect for both a cozy night in or serving to guests, making it a true favorite in our household.

Created by

Francesca Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-21T20:41:34.467Z

When I first made this creamy garlic lentil rice, I was initially skeptical about its richness. After a few bites, I realized the harmony of flavors was simply irresistible! The combination of garlic sautéed to a golden perfection with lentils creates a comforting and satisfying meal I can’t get enough of.

One tip I found essential during my cooking process is to let the garlic sauté until it’s just golden; this prevents burning and enhances the flavor profile of the dish. The creaminess from the lentils mixed with rice creates a texture that’s truly delightful, and I believe you’ll find it just as captivating!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The rich blend of creamy texture with roasted garlic flavor
Nutrient-packed with lentils and the comforting nature of rice
Quick to make while still being incredibly satisfying

The Role of Lentils and Rice

Lentils are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making them a perfect backbone for this dish. Their earthy flavor complements the sweetness of the sautéed onions and garlic, creating a well-rounded taste profile. Opting for green or brown lentils adds a different texture, with green lentils retaining a slightly firmer bite, while brown lentils become softer, melding beautifully into the creamy mixture.

Rice serves not only as a filler but also as a vehicle for all the rich flavors to come together. Choosing the right type of rice is crucial; basmati offers a light, fluffy texture, while jasmine brings a hint of floral aroma. Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, preventing it from becoming gummy. The goal is to achieve a tender grain that still holds its shape as it absorbs the creamy garlic sauce.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Creaminess

To elevate the creaminess of this dish, the key is in the coconut milk. Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer flavor and smoother texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can mix half coconut milk and half vegetable broth, which will still deliver a creamy outcome without being too heavy. Adding the coconut milk at the end allows it to heat through without breaking, ensuring a silky finish.

Also, be careful not to overcook the garlic during the sautéing stage. It should be golden but not browned, as charred garlic can impart a bitter taste. If you notice the garlic starting to brown before the onions are ready, reduce the heat slightly to keep it at the perfect cooking point.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your creamy garlic lentil rice:

Ingredients

1 cup lentils (green or brown)
1 cup rice (basmati or jasmine)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to rinse the lentils and rice well before cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy garlic lentil rice:

Cook the Lentils

In a pot, combine the rinsed lentils with 3 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess liquid.

Prepare the Rice

In another pot, add the rice and the remaining cup of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked.

Sauté the Aromatics

While the lentils and rice are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent and the garlic is golden.

Combine and Serve

Once the lentils and rice are cooked, add them to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Pour in the coconut milk, stir well to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your creamy garlic lentil rice with a nice side salad or as a main course.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some herbs like thyme or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This creamy garlic lentil rice dish is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can cook the lentils and rice a day in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This will help maintain their textures before combining them with the sautéed ingredients and coconut milk, ensuring peak freshness when served.

For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled dish. Cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently to maintain creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your creamy garlic lentil rice warm, topped with chopped fresh parsley for a bright contrast. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. If you want to add a protein boost, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can elevate the dish without overpowering its delicate flavors.

For extra indulgence, consider a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce before serving. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice can also enhance the flavor profile, bringing a zesty brightness to the creamy richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, you can substitute with brown rice or any other variety you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the rice type.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure that the vegetable broth you use is also plant-based.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I add for extra protein?

You can add some sautéed mushrooms or tofu for additional protein. Chickpeas would also work beautifully!