Rice and Lentils (v)

I admit this doesn't sound or indeed look very appetising, but it is yummy. Honest. It's also quick and easy to do and is nice hot or cold. You can serve it with a cold Indian style salad or lime pickle and mago chutney or maybe a creamy curry sauce. We had it with roasted sweet potatoes and carrots and curry sauce. The choice is yours...

For 4-6 portions you need:
1 cup basmati rice
1.5 cups red lentils
2 onions, finely diced
6 tbsp oil (don't stint on this, you need it all!)
3 cups water
crispy fried onions, to serve

Fry the onions in the oil over a gentle heat for about 20 mins until golden and crisp. Wash the rice and lentils thoroughly. Add to the pan along with the water. Bring to the boil and then cover and simmer very gently until the rice and lentils are cooked, about 20 mins. Fluff up with a fork and serve topped with more crispy onions.