Cypriot Lentils Fakes

THIS DISH IS MADE OFTEN IN CYPRIOT HOMES. It's an easy and tasty dish, and ideal for those fasting for religious reasons. This is frequently the meal I turn to when I am late arriving home and want a warm but easy-to-prepare meal. Note to the cook: I do add more onions than the traditional recipe calls for, because it is my favourite part. Cut all the onions the same size, otherwise some will burn. Do not overcook the lentils and rice or they will become mushy. If you wish to add more onions, feel free to do so, but you will also need to increase the amount of oil in which they are fried. You can't really go wrong with the amount of onions you add, it is just a matter of personal taste. This dish is best enjoyed with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt.

Olive Oil

3 Tbs, divided

Onions 2 small, sliced into ¼ inch rings and halved into semi-circles

Small Green Lentils ½ cup

Water 2 cups

Parboiled Rice ¼ cup

Salt and Pepper to taste

Greek Yogurt or Feta Cheese to serve alongside

1 POUR 2 ½ Tbs oil into a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add onions. Fry the onions for about 15 to 20 minutes until soft, browned and beginning to caramelize. Stir frequently. Do not let them burn. You should be able to easily cut through the onions with a wooden spoon. Turn off the heat and let the onions sit in the pan.

2 WHILE the onions are frying, place the lentils, 1 ½ cups water and the remaining 1 Tbs olive oil into a saucepan over medium heat on the stove. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving a slight gap for air to escape. Cook for about 10 minutes, until the lentils are half cooked, then add the rice, the remaining 1 cup water and salt to taste and replace the lid. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking. Add more water if needed, but not too much, as you eventually want all the water to evaporate.

3 COOK the lentils and rice mixture for about 10 to 15 minutes until cooked but still firm. Turn off the heat, leave the lid on the pot and let the lentils and rice continue to cook inside for another 5 minutes, absorbing any remaining liquid.

4 MIX together all of the onions and lentils. Serve with spoonfuls of Greek yogurt and/or pieces of feta cheese.