French Onion Baked Lentils and Farro: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish

Introduction

Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that will keep you warm during the cold winter months? Look no further than French Onion Baked Lentils and Farro. This dish combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, earthy lentils, and nutty farro to create a hearty and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Ingredients

For the lentils and farro:

• 1 cup green lentils
• 1 cup farro
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the French onion topping:

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the lentils and farro

Start by rinsing the lentils and farro under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. In a large pot, combine the lentils, farro, vegetable broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils and farro are tender.

Step 2: Caramelize the onions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown. This process can take up to 30 minutes, as the onions need time to caramelize and develop their sweet flavor. Sprinkle the sugar, salt, and black pepper over the onions and continue to cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble and bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, combine the cooked lentils and farro with half of the caramelized onions. Mix well to distribute the flavors. Spread the remaining onions on top of the lentil and farro mixture. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyere cheese evenly over the onions.

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dish is heated through.

Variations

This recipe is versatile and allows for various modifications to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few suggestions:

Additional vegetables:

Feel free to add some additional vegetables to the lentils and farro mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms would work well in this recipe.

Herbs and seasonings:

Experiment with different herbs and seasonings to customize the flavors. Fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley would add a fragrant touch to the dish.

Protein boost:

If you prefer a dish with more protein, consider adding some cooked chicken or tofu to the lentils and farro mixture before baking.

Tips

• Be patient when caramelizing the onions. The slow cooking process is essential to achieve that sweet and flavorful result.
• Feel free to use other types of lentils if you can’t find green lentils. Brown or black lentils would work well in this recipe.
• Make sure to rinse the lentils and farro before cooking to remove any impurities.
• If you don’t have Gruyere cheese, you can substitute it with Swiss or Emmental cheese.

Conclusion

French Onion Baked Lentils and Farro is a satisfying and nourishing dish that brings together the flavors of caramelized onions, lentils, and farro. It’s a perfect option for a comforting weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to add your own personal touch with additional vegetables, herbs, or protein. So, why not give it a try and enjoy a bowl of warmth and deliciousness?

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the lentils and farro ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the dish with the caramelized onions and cheese, then bake as directed.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains farro, which is not gluten-free. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting the farro with gluten-free grains like quinoa or brown rice.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese or the one you have on hand. Gouda, cheddar, or even mozzarella would work well in this recipe.