Power through your fasting day with this nutritious and filling Date & Lentil Rice Bowl. Specially crafted for Suhoor, this dish combines protein-rich lentils, aromatic rice, and the natural sweetness of premium Emirati dates with a blend of Middle Eastern spices. This balanced meal provides sustained energy and essential nutrients to keep you nourished throughout your fasting hours.
Why This Bowl is Perfect for Suhoor
- High in protein and fiber
- Provides sustained energy
- Can be prepared in advance
- Easy to digest
- Keeps you hydrated
- Rich in essential nutrients
- Reheats well
Ingredients
For the Lentils:
- 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons The Date Room Date Dibs
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups water or broth
For the Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons ghee or olive oil
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 cardamom pods
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water
For the Date Topping:
- 6-8 The Date Room Kholas dates, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup The Date Room Caramelised Pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or cilantro)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt
For Serving:
- Caramelized onions
- Fresh herbs
- Lemon wedges
- Extra virgin olive oil
Method
- Prepare the Lentils:
- Heat oil in a large pot
- Sauté onions until golden
- Add garlic and spices, cook until fragrant
- Add lentils and water/broth
- Add Date Dibs
- Simmer until tender (about 20-25 minutes)
- Season to taste
- Cook the Rice:
- Rinse rice until water runs clear
- Heat ghee in pot
- Add whole spices
- Add rice and toast briefly
- Add water and salt
- Cook until fluffy
- Let rest covered
- Prepare Date Topping:
- Chop dates and nuts
- Mix with olive oil
- Add fresh herbs
- Season with salt
- Set aside
- Assembly:
- Layer rice in bowls
- Top with lentils
- Add date-nut mixture
- Garnish with caramelized onions
- Sprinkle fresh herbs
- Drizzle with olive oil
- Serve with lemon wedges
Nutritional Benefits for Fasting
This bowl provides essential nutrients for fasting:
- Lentils: Protein, iron, fiber
- Dates: Natural sugars, potassium, magnesium
- Rice: Complex carbohydrates, sustained energy
- Nuts: Healthy fats, protein
- Herbs: Vitamins and minerals
- Olive Oil: Healthy fats, helps nutrient absorption
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare efficiently for Suhoor:
- Cook lentils up to 3 days ahead
- Prepare rice 1 day ahead
- Make date topping the night before
- Store components separately
- Reheat gently with a splash of water
Why Choose The Date Room Products
The depth of flavor in this dish comes from using premium quality dates and nuts. The Date Room’s Kholas dates provide perfect natural sweetness, while our Date Dibs adds richness to the lentils. Our Caramelised Pecans bring essential crunch and flavor complexity.
Variations
Customize your bowl:
- Add roasted vegetables
- Include grilled chicken or lamb
- Try different The Date Room nuts
- Add more spices
- Include yogurt sauce
- Make it spicy with chili
Storage Tips
- Keep components separate
- Store in airtight containers
- Refrigerate up to 3 days
- Reheat gently
- Add fresh toppings just before serving
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- For Perfect Lentils:
- Don’t overcook
- Season well
- Add Date Dibs at the end
- Keep some liquid for reheating
- For Best Rice:
- Rinse thoroughly
- Toast before adding water
- Let rest after cooking
- Fluff with fork
- For Assembly:
- Layer components don’t mix
- Serve at room temperature
- Add fresh elements last
- Adjust seasoning before serving
Visit our website www.thedateroom.com or our store in Abu Dhabi to select your perfect dates and nuts for this recipe and explore our full range of premium Emirati products.
Time-Saving Tips for Suhoor
- Prep ingredients night before
- Use microwave for reheating
- Keep garnishes ready
- Store in portions
- Have all components within reach
Start your fasting day with this nourishing and delicious bowl. For more innovative recipes and inspiration, follow us on social media and visit our blog regularly throughout the holy month.
A Sweet Note from The Date Room Family: Our recipes are created with love and shared in the spirit of Ramadan generosity. While we use our premium dates and ingredients in specific measurements, we encourage you to adjust flavors to your preference – after all, every family has its own special touch! As with any culinary journey, please be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions, and feel free to adapt ingredients accordingly. Each kitchen and cooking experience is unique, so consider our measurements and timing as friendly guidelines rather than strict rules. Most importantly, we hope these recipes bring joy and warmth to your Ramadan table.
