Mediterranean Braised Lentils with Poached Eggs
This Mediterranean Braised Lentils with Poached Eggs is humble, nourishing, and deeply comforting. Earthy lentils are slowly braised with olive oil, onion, garlic, tomato, and herbs, then topped with silky poached eggs that create a natural sauce when broken. Protein-rich, not spicy, and perfect for breakfast-for-dinner or a cozy lunch.
⏱ Time & Servings
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 35 minutes
Total: ~45 minutes
Serves: 4
🧾 Ingredients
Braised Lentils
1½ cups brown or green lentils, rinsed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely diced (optional)
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 bay leaf
½ tsp ground cumin (optional, mild)
½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
¾ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
Poached Eggs
4 large eggs
1 tbsp white vinegar (optional but helpful)
To Finish
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Lemon wedges
Optional: crumbled feta or yogurt
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Build the Base
Heat olive oil in a wide pot or deep skillet over medium heat
Add onion, carrot, and celery; sauté 5–6 minutes until soft
Add garlic; cook 30 seconds
2️⃣ Braise the Lentils
Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute
Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, herbs, salt, and pepper
Bring to a gentle simmer
Cover and cook 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and saucy
Adjust thickness with a splash of broth if needed
3️⃣ Poach the Eggs
Bring a shallow pan of water to a gentle simmer
Add vinegar
Crack eggs one by one into the water
Poach 3–4 minutes for runny yolks
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain
4️⃣ Serve
Spoon braised lentils into bowl.
Top each with a poached egg
Drizzle olive oil, add herbs, and finish with lemon
🌟 Why This Dish Is Special
Lentils provide slow, steady energy
Poached egg adds richness without heaviness
Mediterranean pantry staples, big flavor
Naturally high-protein and budget-friendly
📝 Tips
Use green or brown lentils (not red—they break down too much)
Let lentils rest 5 minutes before serving for best texture
For extra depth, add a splash of balsamic or red wine vinegar at the end
Eggs can also be soft-boiled if preferred
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQs
Can I make this vegan?
Yes—skip eggs and top with roasted mushrooms or chickpeas.
Meal prep friendly?
Lentils keep well 3–4 days refrigerated. Add eggs fresh.
Serve with what?
Crusty bread, flatbread, or a simple cucumber salad.
🥗 Nutrition information
Calories: 360
Protein: 22 g
Carbs: 42 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 14 g