Quick and Delicious Meals: Meat/Lentil Mix

Today, we present a versatile ground meat or lentil base that can be used as a foundation for numerous dishes. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping and freezing, allowing you to save time and effort in the kitchen. Let's dive into the details and learn how to create this flavorful and convenient ground meat/lentil base. We created the recipe video using ground beef but you can replace this ingredient with lentils for a plant-based option!

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Ground Beef/Lentil Mix

Introductions & Fun Facts

Fun Fact about Ground Beef: Did you know that ground beef, also known as minced meat or hamburger meat, became popular in the early 20th century due to its convenience and affordability? In 1906, the invention of the meat grinder revolutionized the way beef was prepared and consumed. Ground beef quickly gained popularity as it allowed for easier cooking and faster meal preparation. Today, it remains a staple ingredient in a wide range of dishes, including hamburgers and meatballs, making it a versatile choice for many culinary creations.

Fun Fact about Lentils: Did you know that lentils have been cultivated for thousands of years and are among the oldest known food crops? Lentils have a rich history dating back over 8,000 years. They were actually one of the first crops cultivated by humans and have been an essential part of diets in various cultures around the world. Lentils are not only historically significant but also nutritionally valuable. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various essential nutrients. Lentils come in different colours, including green, brown, red, and black, each with its own unique flavour and texture. They are incredibly versatile and can be used in soups, stews, salads, curries, and side dishes, making them a popular choice for vegetarian and vegan recipes.

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Recipe

Video: Point Blank Photography (@pointblankphoto)

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of ground meat of your choice (e.g., beef, chicken, turkey) OR 3 cans of lentils, drained and rinsed

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3/4 cup mild Aji (or use spicier Aji)

• Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onion:

• Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil.

• Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and starts to caramelize.

2. Cook the Ground Meat or Lentils:

• If using ground meat: Break up the meat using a spoon or spatula. Stir well to combine.

• Cook the ground meat, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through.

• If using lentils: Add the drained and rinsed lentils to the pan with the sautéed onions. Stir well to combine.

3. Add Aji and Simmer:

• Once the ground meat or lentils are cooked, pour the Aji sauce over the mixture.

• Stir everything together; ensuring the sauce is evenly distributed.

• Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

• Taste the base and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.

4. Cool and Portion:

• Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool completely.

• Once cooled, portion the ground meat/lentil base into 1-cup sizes. You can use freezer-safe containers or bags.

5. Freeze and Store:

• Label the containers with the date and contents for easy reference.

• Transfer the portions to the freezer and freeze until solid.

Usage Ideas:

• Tacos or Burritos: Thaw the base and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Top with your favorite toppings such as cheese, lettuce, and of course, more Aji. Refer to our taco recipe!

• With your Spaghetti: Simply warm and add to pasta along with your favourite pasta sauce.

• Shepherd's Pie: Thaw a portion and spread it as the bottom layer in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and bake until golden brown. Refer to our Shepherd’s Pie recipe on our website.

• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Thaw the base and use it as a filling for hollowed-out bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.

• Asian Beef: Keep an eye out for our next recipe blog!

Conclusion: This ground meat/lentil base recipe offers you a convenient and flavorful option for meal prepping. By following these simple steps, you can create a hearty base that can be transformed into various dishes. Enjoy the convenience of having this freezer-friendly base on hand whenever you need a quick and delicious meal. Happy cooking!

Thank you!

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