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French Lentil Spinach Delight with Crème Fraîche

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Pixicook editorial team

A delightful French-inspired dish combining lentilles du Puy, baby spinach, Dijon mustard, and crème fraîche.

Ingredients for French Lentil Spinach Delight with Crème Fraîche

units in
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serves
6 peoplechevron

Finely Chopped Onion, finely chopped

cups

Finely Chopped Carrot, finely chopped

cups

Finely Chopped Celery, finely chopped

cups

Table Salt

teaspoons

Dried Lentilles Du Puy, picked over and rinsed

cups

Dijon Mustard

tablespoons

Creme fraiche

cups

How to Make French Lentil Spinach Delight with Crème Fraîche

1. Cook vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery, sprinkling in ½ teaspoon of table salt. Cook these vegetables for about 5 minutes until they are tender and aromatic.

2. Add lentils and broth

Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and add the rinsed lentilles du Puy. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling slightly, reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on the liquid level; if the mixture looks dry, add hot water ¼ cup at a time.

3. Add spinach and mustard

Once the lentils are cooked to perfection, gently fold in 2 ounces of baby spinach and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Turn off the heat and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes.

4. Serve with crème fraîche

Transfer the lentil mixture to a serving bowl. Just before serving, dollop ¼ cup of crème fraîche on top. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors.

Pitfalls and tips

Taste, Taste, Taste

Regularly taste and adjust seasonings to balance the flavors of lentils, spinach, aromatics, and crème fraîche.

Select the Right Lentils

Use French green lentils, or lentilles du Puy, for their ability to hold shape and peppery flavor. Avoid mushy red or yellow lentils.

Fresh Spinach

Opt for fresh spinach, remove thick stems if necessary, and add it at the end of cooking to retain color and texture.

Seasoning in Layers

Salt the lentils while cooking and adjust the seasoning again after combining with spinach and aromatics.

Cook Lentils Perfectly

Rinse lentils and cook them with a bay leaf and garlic in broth or water. Aim for a tender yet firm texture in 20-25 minutes.

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