Being a vegetarian, I am always on the lookout for new dishes.  This is not only one of my everyday favourites but also a great company dish, as its rich full flavours and aroma appeals equally to non vegetarians.  Great served with rice and any vegetable. 

Ingredients

1 1/2 c of dried lentils

1 c diced onion

1 c diced celery

2 cloves garlic

1 tsp each of coriander, cinnamon, cumin and turmeric

1 tbsp of chopped or grated fresh ginger (or 1 tsp powered)

1/4 c of apricots

1/4 c figs

Dash of cayenne, salt and pepper

Soak the lentils in a bowl while you sauté the onion, celery and garlic in a little butter or olive oil. (If you use a large pot rather than a frying pan, you can add the lentils directly.) 

When the onion is transparent, add the spices and ginger.  Stir well.  

Add a little water and simmer the spices for a few minutes. 

Drain your lentils and add to spices. (If you used a frying pan for the spices you will have to transfer all to a pot.)

Add enough water to cover the lentils and simmer for a good half hour.  Keep topping up the water as the lentils soak it up. 

Add apricots and figs and simmer on low heat for another half hour.  

Add cayenne and salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy!

A good recipe for slow cookers and makes yummy and easy left-overs.