Peruvian Rice and Lentils (Tacu Tacu)

Ingredients for Peruvian Rice and Lentils (Tacu Tacu)

• 240ml dried brown lentils (200g)

• 1750ml water, divided

• 2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic, divided

• 90ml vegetable oil, divided

• 240ml long-grain white rice

• 1 small red onion, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon bottled ají amarillo or ají mirasol paste (sometimes labeled "crema")

How to make Peruvian Rice and Lentils (Tacu Tacu)

Bring lentils, 1200ml water, and 1/2 teaspoons salt to a boil in a heavy medium saucepan, then simmer, uncovered, until lentils are just tender, 12 to 25 minutes (depending on age of lentils). Drain, then transfer to a large bowl.

Meanwhile, cook 1 teaspoon garlic in 1 tablespoon oil in another heavy medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring, 1 minute. Add rice and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Add remaining 550ml water and 1 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil, then cook, covered, over low heat 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, 10 minutes. Stir rice from top to bottom with a rubber spatula, then stir into lentils.

While rice stands, sautéonion and remaining teaspoon garlic in 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until onion is golden, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in chilli paste and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Stir onion mixture into rice mixture.

Heat remaining 60ml oil in skillet over medium heat until hot. Add rice mixture and fry, gently flattening with a spatula, until a golden-brown crust forms on underside, about 3 minutes. Stir rice and fry, flattening it, until a crust forms on underside again, about 3 minutes more. Repeat frying and stirring until bits of crust are dispersed throughout, about 9 minutes more (about 15 minutes total frying time).

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While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.