Jamaican Jerk Lentils: A Spicy Twist

Jamaican Jerk Lentils: A Spicy Twist -Lentils, lentils, lentils. I bet you didn’t know those miniature rice-sized innocent looking legumes pack such a powerful nutrient punch in a small size. Growing up I don’t think I ever really noticed lentils, it wasn’t until I became vegan and looking for a good source of protein and fibre that I learned about these amazing plant source. This jerk spiced lentils recipe delivers a delicious combination of flavour and packed nutritional content but don’t take our word for it – definitely give it a try!

WHAT ARE LENTILS

Lentils are legumes—cousins to beans, chickpeas, soybeans and peanuts. The name “lentil” actually comes from the Latin word for “lens” – who knew? Lentils belong to the legume family which also includes beans, peas and peanuts. Their shape resembles a tiny bean and they come in a variety of colours: red, brown, black, and green varieties. The brown variety are my absolute favourite but nothing wrong with the other colours. As I mentioned lentils contain high levels of protein and fibre, while low in fat and calories. Just look at the protein chart below for yourself.

As you can see from the chart, lentils pack some of the highest protein numbers from the legume family. In addition to protein, lentils pack around 32% of the recommended daily fibre intake – AMAZING right? Lentils are also a great source for other minerals like potassium, folate, iron and manganese.

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WHAT JERK SEASONING TO USE?

In terms of the jerk seasoning or jerk marinade you can use any brand you like or make your own if you are brave enough. I have my own preferred brand (send a DM if you want to know or check my Instagram feed you will be sure to spot my favourite Jamaican brand of marinade.

JERK SPICED LENTILS

Jerk spiced lentils recipe below. Enjoy and do let us know what you think about the recipe.

Jamaican Jerk Lentils: A Spicy Twist

Enjoy this deliciously seasoned jerk spiced lentils recipe; high in protein and fibre and minerals great meat replacement.

Author: Vegan Caribbean Foodie Cooking Method: Caribbean, Jamaican Cuisine: African, Caribbean, Jamaican Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Side Dish Recipe Keys: C Caribbean J Jerk L Lentils Spicy

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Prep Time 15 min Cook Time 12 min Total Time 27 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 4 Calories: 100 kcal Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

Servings

• 1.5-2 cup Cooked Lentils (brown, yellow or green)
• 1 Medium Onion (Chopped)
• 2 Garlic (Chopped)
• 1 Scallion (Chopped)
• 3 Thyme
• 2 tablespoons Jerk Seasoning
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon Black Pepper
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon Salt

Instructions

1. Saute onions, garlic, scallion and thyme

2. Add cooked lentils

3. Add jerk seasoning per your liking. Best to add a little at a time and taste test

4. Add black pepper, salt, garlic powder and stir

5. Cook on medium-low for another 8-10 minutes. If necessary add a tip of water if too dry.

Nutrition Facts

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 100kcal

% Daily Value *

Protein 30g60%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Adjust the jerk seasoning per your personal preference. I recommend adding a little bit at a time, tasting and adjust accordingly.

Keywords: Caribbean, Jerk, Lentils, Spicy