Adas bi Hamod

Adas bi Hamod literally means lentils in Lemon. It is actually a lentil stew with Swiss chard, small diced potatoes, fresh cilantro and some lemon juice to finish the dish. This traditional Lebanese staple is very hearty and healthy! What more could you ask for? This is a Lebanese dish I grew up eating, specially on Fridays (also known as meatless-days in my family).

The lemon aromas come from freshly squeezed lemon juice of course and sumac. My mom used to make this recipe without sumac, but I really think the addition of this Mediterranean  spice enhances the dish and gives deeper notes of citrusy flavors… we are talking about layers of flavors. The good stuff! 

Bon appétit! ;)

Adas bi Hamod / Lentil & Swiss Chard Stew

Recipe credits: Rafaella Sargi
Serves 4 to 6

Ingredients
2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 medium onions, finely chopped (approx. 2 cups)
1 garlic clove, grated
1 cup lentils
5 cups of water
1 large potato, peeled and diced (approx. 2 cups)
1 large (or 2 small) bunch of Swiss chard, cleaned, central stem removed and leaves chopped
1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
2 Tablespoons ground sumac
2 teaspoons ground coriander
Juice of 2 lemons
Salt
Extra virgin olive oil (for serving)

Directions
Prep all the ingredients.
You will need one large pot with a lid.

Heat the extra virgin olive oil in the large pot and cook the onions until translucent. Add the grated garlic and cook for a few seconds, then add the lentils and mix well. Cover with 5 cups of water and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover and let the lentils cook for 20 minutes*.
Add the potatoes, Swiss chard, cilantro, sumac, coriander, and 1 teaspoon of salt and bring back to a nice simmer. Let it cook covered over medium-low heat for another 30 (to 45) minutes.
Add the lemon juice, taste and correct seasoning. Let it slowly simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes. 
Serve hot or warm with a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a slice of crusty bread.

*Depending on the quality and type of lentils you are using, the first cooking step might require more than 20 minutes. Be attentive and check on them before proceeding with the recipe. I would describe them as half cooked at this stage.