Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup coconut milk; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice because it’s such a comforting and fulfilling dish. The combination of tender lentils, fluffy rice, and a rich tomato sauce creates a delightful flavor profile that warms me up on chilly days. I always make this recipe when I want a hearty meal without tons of fuss. The creaminess adds an indulgent touch, making it not only satisfying but also perfect for sharing with friends and family over a cozy dinner.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:25:35.331Z

When I first tried making this dish, I was amazed at how the lentils and rice melded beautifully with the tomatoes, creating a creamy consistency that seemed almost luxurious. The key was simmering them together, allowing all those flavors to develop fully. Now, it’s one of my favorite go-to meals because it's nutritious and ready in just 40 minutes.

To enhance the flavor, I love adding a splash of coconut milk. It lends just the right amount of creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly. Just be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and make sure everything cooks evenly.

        Why You'll Love Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice
        A comforting and creamy dish that's packed with plant-based protein.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
Perfect for meal prep; it stores well for leftovers!

      

The Role of Lentils and Rice

In this Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice dish, lentils not only provide a hearty texture but are also an excellent source of plant-based protein. They absorb the flavors from the spices and the tomato sauce during cooking, enhancing the overall profile of the dish. Opt for brown or green lentils, as they hold their shape well while also melding with the creaminess of the coconut milk. If you're pressed for time, red lentils can be used, but they will break down more and create a softer texture.

Long-grain rice complements the lentils beautifully in this recipe. It cooks up fluffy and lends a nice contrast to the creaminess of the dish. For a firmer grain, consider using basmati or jasmine rice. Make sure to rinse the rice well before cooking; this removes excess starch and guarantees that each grain remains distinct, preventing unwanted clumping in your finished dish.

Adding Depth with Aromatics

Aromatics like onion and garlic are essential to developing a rich, complex flavor base for your Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice. Sautéing them in olive oil until they become translucent not only sweetens their flavor but also serves as a foundation for the entire dish. I recommend keeping the heat at a medium level; too high and you risk burning the garlic, which can add a bitter taste that overshadows the other flavors.

Beyond just onion and garlic, feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables or spices to deepen the flavor. For instance, a finely diced carrot or bell pepper can add sweetness and a pop of color. Alternatively, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can provide a delightful kick if you enjoy some heat in your meals.

Perfecting the Creaminess

The addition of coconut milk is what truly transforms this dish into a creamy delight. When stirred in toward the end of cooking, it adds a luxurious mouthfeel and rounds out the acidity of the tomatoes. If coconut milk is not available or if you're looking for a lighter option, unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream could serve as suitable substitutes, though they will yield a slightly different flavor.

To serve your Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice, consider topping it with fresh basil, which not only enhances the dish’s aesthetics but also adds a bright, fresh note that balances the richness. If you have any leftover cheese from a previous meal, such as feta or Parmesan, crumbling it on top before serving can add an extra layer of depth and indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Rice and Lentils

1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creaminess

1/2 cup coconut milk
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy tomato lentil rice:

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the lentils, rice, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Cook the Dish

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice and lentils are tender.

Finish with Creaminess

Stir in the coconut milk and allow to heat through for another 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve Hot

Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your delicious creamy tomato lentil rice!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process for a subtle kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice is ideal for meal prep, as it holds up beautifully in the refrigerator and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the dish, as it may thicken in the fridge.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions in separate containers. This dish freezes well for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little coconut milk or broth to regain that creamy texture.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

Feel free to customize this dish according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, ensure that your vegetable broth and any added condiments are certified gluten-free. You can swap out the long-grain rice for quinoa for an even higher protein content, though cooking times will differ—approximately 15-20 minutes instead.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only increases the nutritional value but also adds vibrant color and texture, making your Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice even more appealing and satisfying.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your lentils are not cooking through after the suggested time, it could be that they were too old. Make sure to check the expiration on your lentil package, as older lentils can take longer to soften. Additionally, ensure that your heat is set low enough during simmering; too high can cause evaporation of the broth and leave your lentils undercooked.

Another common issue is the dish becoming too thick due to the rice absorbing too much liquid. If this happens, simply stir in additional vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. This ensures you retain that creamy texture while also keeping the flavors balanced.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time and liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish Vegan?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, Creamy Tomato Lentil Rice freezes well. Just ensure it's stored in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or cashew cream as an alternative, though the texture may vary slightly.