How to Cook Lentejas Guisadas (Stewed Lentils)

1. Boil the lentils

1. Rinse the lentils. Soak the them in abundant water for 20 - 60 minutes in a dutch oven or pot. Boil the lentils for 15 minutes over medium heat. Sieve the lentils until all the water has been drained. Set aside water and lentils.

2. Cook

1. In a dutch oven (caldero) heat the oil over medium-high heat. If you are adding pork chops, cook them stirring until they brown, otherwise continue with the instructions below.Add the onion to the pot. Cook and stir until the onion becomes translucent. Add the potatoes, pumpkin, bell pepper, garlic, and thyme. Cook and stir for 2 minutes.

3. Add the lentils

1. Add the lentils (without the water) to the pot, and cook and stir for a minute. Add 4 cups of the water you had reserved, stir.

4. Simmer

1. Cover and simmer over low heat until all the ingredients are cooked through. Add more water as it becomes necessary (use clear water if you run out of the water from boiling the lentils)Remove the thyme sprigs, and stir in the cilantro. Season with salt to taste.

5. Serve

1. Remove from the heat and serve per suggestions above the recipe.