Adasi (Persian Lentil Breakfast)

Persian · Breakfast · Easy

Adasi (Persian Lentil Breakfast)

Total
1 hr 5 min
Prep
15 min
Serves
4
Calories
310
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Lentils and potato simmer into a thick Persian breakfast bowl, with turmeric, cumin and lemon giving the earthy base a warm, bright finish.

A spoonful of mashed potato thickens Adasi (Persian Lentil Breakfast) without hiding the shape of the lentils. Onion and turmeric build a golden base, and a squeeze of lemon at the end keeps the long-simmered bowl from tasting heavy.

This savory breakfast is eaten in Iran, often with bread for scooping. Choose brown or green lentils that soften but hold together; red lentils melt too quickly for the same texture.

Method

  1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook onion for until softened and lightly golden.

  2. Stir in turmeric, cumin and tomato paste and cook for until fragrant. Add lentils, potato, water, salt and black pepper.

  3. Bring to a boil, then cover partially and simmer over low heat for until the lentils are tender and the potato crushes easily.

  4. Mash a few potato pieces against the pan to thicken the broth. Simmer for , then remove from the heat and stir in lemon juice.

Forkue tips

  • Older lentils can take longer to soften. Keep the pot at a gentle simmer and add hot water if the mixture thickens before they are tender.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate for 4 days or freeze in portions for 2 months. Loosen with water while reheating and add a little fresh lemon to wake up the earthy flavors.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

310Calories
16gProtein
45gCarbs
8gFat

Image: AI-generated picture of the finished dish, made by Forkue. Yours will look like home cooking.

Adasi (Persian Lentil Breakfast): FAQ

Is adasi only eaten for breakfast?

Breakfast is a familiar setting for it, but the thick lentil bowl also makes a simple lunch. Serve bread alongside if you want a more substantial meal.

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, use about 3.5 cups drained cooked lentils. Cook the potato in less water first, then add the lentils to warm through and adjust the thickness.

How do I store and reheat Adasi (Persian Lentil Breakfast)?

Refrigerate for 4 days or freeze in portions for 2 months. Loosen with water while reheating and add a little fresh lemon to wake up the earthy flavors.

How long does Adasi (Persian Lentil Breakfast) take?

About 1 hr 5 min in total: 15 min prep and 50 min cooking.

What do I need to make Adasi (Persian Lentil Breakfast)?

The key ingredients are brown lentils, onion, potato, turmeric, ground cumin and tomato paste, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Adasi (Persian Lentil Breakfast)?

Older lentils can take longer to soften. Keep the pot at a gentle simmer and add hot water if the mixture thickens before they are tender.