Lentil Tacos

"outstanding" -- M

Ingredients

• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 jalapeno, minced
  
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon canola oil
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup salsa
• salt
  
• 12 corn tortillas

TOPPINGS (these are the ones I like, use what you like):

• shredded lettuce
• minced cilantro
• minced onion
  
• chopped fresh tomato
• chopped avocado
  
• shredded cheddar cheese
• sour cream (can use low-fat)
• spicy habanero sauce
  

Directions

1. In a large nonstick skillet, saute the onion, jalapeno, and garlic in oil until tender. Add the lentils, chili powder, cumin and oregano; cook and stir for 1 minute. Add 3 cups of water and 1/4 tsp. salt; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Uncover; cook for 6-8 minutes or until mixture is thickened. Mash lentils slightly.
   
2. Stir in salsa. Taste and add salt if necessary.
   
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup lentil mixture into each tortilla. Top with toppings you like!

BONUS:

How to make the perfect taco:

1. microwave corn tortilla until warm and slightly pliable
2. add lentil mixture
3. add a sprinkle of raw onion and a smallish amount of cheese
4. add lettuce, cilantro, tomato
5. salt and pepper tomato
6. add avocado
7. salt and pepper avocado
8. add spicy sauce if desired and a small dollop of sour cream
9. EAT!

adapted from allrecipes.com