Today’s recipe is inspired by Mexican cuisine and named after a famous leader of the Mexican Revolution. We’re making the delicious Pancho Villa Lentils. This dish is a type of stew or potage where the main ingredient is lentils, prepared with chorizo and bacon, which give it a special flavor,...

Ingredients
- lentils400g
- water2L
- corn oil1tbsp
- medium onion, finely chopped1/2
- garlic, minced1clove
- chorizo100g
- bacon, chopped100g
- large tomato, diced and seeds removed1
- Salt to taste
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
392.6kcal (19.63%)
Protein
22.8g (45.6%)
Carbs
24.6g (8.93%)
Sugars
1.4g (2.9%)
Healthy Fat
16.5g
Unhealthy Fat
7.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Pancho Villa Lentils
Soak the Lentils
- Step 1
Soak the lentils in water for at least 4 hours.
Cook the Lentils
- Step 1
Once the lentils are hydrated, place them in a pot with water and boil until they are cooked and tender.
Drain and Reserve the Broth
- Step 1
Strain the lentils and set aside the cooking broth.
Sauté Aromatics
- Step 1
In a pot, heat the corn oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
Add Chorizo and Bacon
- Step 1
Add the sliced chorizo and chopped bacon to the pot. Sauté the mixture for a couple of minutes.
Incorporate the Tomato
- Step 1
Add the diced, seedless tomato to the pot. Season with salt to taste and pour in a bit of the reserved lentil broth.
Simmer
- Step 1
Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 15 minutes. If needed, add more of the reserved broth to maintain the desired consistency.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
392.6kcal (19.63%)
Protein
22.8g (45.6%)
Carbs
24.6g (8.93%)
Sugars
1.4g (2.9%)
Healthy Fat
16.5g
Unhealthy Fat
7.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Soaking the lentils beforehand helps them cook faster and more evenly.
For an extra kick of flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder while sautéing the aromatics.
Serve with chili salsa and warm flour tortillas for an authentic Mexican touch.
FAQS
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Simply skip the soaking and boiling steps and proceed with the recipe. Adjust the amount of reserved broth accordingly.
What type of chorizo should I use?
Mexican chorizo is recommended for this recipe as it has the right flavor profile. If unavailable, you can use a similar spicy sausage.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chorizo and bacon and use vegetable oil instead of corn oil. Add smoked paprika or a vegetarian sausage for added flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of water if needed.
Can I freeze Pancho Villa Lentils?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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