mashed red lentils = excellent mashed potato swap (restaurant, bread, creamy)

[jade408]

So I am avoiding nightshades, among other things as part of an elimination diet.

Today I went to a place for dinner that had a side of mashed red lentils as an option instead of bread. Since wheat is on my elimination list, that seemed like a good option, and I like lentils.

I shocked to find these lentils tasted like potatoes. While the restaurant hadn't mashed them as smoothly as you might do potatoes, they were pretty creamy as is (they added some spices).

Red lentils have loads of protein and fiber, so it might be a good swap for you. And they get pretty creamy without dairy. They also fall apart into a paste when cooking, so it wouldn't take much fussing to get a mashed potato consistency.

Wanted to share! Have you used lentils in this way? I am definitely going to make this swap at home! I don't eat potatoes often at home, lentils are easy to keep in the pantry.

[Shira_k]

I make a red lentil soup (thanks for reminding me: it's soup weather!) that gets the red lentils nice and creamy (I don't even have to blend they just fall apart).i never thought of using them as a side dish, but why not?

Thanks for sharing

[Mikala43]

I love lentils, and this is a brilliant idea!

[Cliffie]

It doesn't just have to be lentils, for that matter. Think of the pinto beans inside the last burrito you ate!

[lubby]

Mashed cauliflower is great too. Not as thick as mashed potatoes but it is a great alternative. I am actually making that tonight.

[Suburban_Guy]

Lentils are great, I cook them extra long so they are practically mush.

Very tasty.

[lubby]

I had to look up what nightshades were. I did not know it was referring to certain fruits and veggies. I learned something new today.