Kick off your morning with something a little different – Breakfast Red Split Lentils with Cinnamon Brown Sugar.
Packed with plant-based protein and made with simple pantry staples, this bowl is a cozy, no-oats porridge that’ll keep you going all morning. It’s got the warm, sweet vibes of cinnamon and brown sugar mixed with creamy, tender lentils – perfect for when you’re craving something filling and flavorful but easy. Whether you’re looking to switch up your routine or get a quick, hearty meal, this recipe’s got you covered.
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Why You’ll Love This
- This breakfast bowl of lentils is PACKED with plant-based PROTEIN! Thanks to the legumes, we're hitting about 17 grams of protein per serving. To put that into perspective, a bowl of old-fashioned cooked oats yields about 4 grams of protein.
- It's ready in just 15 minutes on stovetop! No need to spend an entire hour hovering over the stove. This recipe only takes a few minutes to make.
- Made with pantry-friendly ingredients. Check out your pantry - you might already have all the ingredients needed. This includes lentils, spices, brown sugar, walnuts, and coconut milk to add some creaminess.
- This recipe is grain-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and 100% VEGAN!
Lentils for Breakfast
Lentils may seem like an unusual guest at the breakfast table in some places, like here in the western world. However, lentils are enjoyed bright-and-early in countries like Iran with their stew called haleem made with lentils, grains, meat, and spices. And then you have idli in south India, a savory rice cake made with fermented black lentils.
Speaking of protein, starting a plant-based diet and needing more protein? Check out Top 10 Cheap Plant-Based Protein Sources to get some ideas for your next meals!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Red Split Lentils: These lentils cook quickly and absorb flavors well, making them perfect for a creamy, slightly sweet porridge. Other lentils will require longer cooking times and won’t achieve the same texture.
- Water or Plant-Based Milk: For a richer, creamier texture, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of water.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warming spice that’s perfect for breakfast. You can also try cardamom or allspice for different flavor profiles.
- Nutmeg (optional): A pinch of nutmeg deepens the flavor, giving it a cozy, autumnal vibe. Use sparingly as it’s quite potent.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness; adjust to taste. Maple syrup or coconut sugar are great substitutes.
- Coconut Milk (for drizzling): Makes the porridge extra creamy. Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer flavor or swap for almond or oat milk if preferred.
Chopped Walnuts (optional): For a bit of crunch and healthy fats, add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts. You can also use pecans or almonds if you prefer.
Tips for the Best Breakfast Lentils
- Opt to Pressure Cook: Pressure cooking this recipe will yield a quick and creamy porridge that’s ready in minutes.
- Watch the Water Ratio: Lentils absorb a lot of liquid, so adjust based on your desired consistency. Add more water or milk if you like it creamier.
- Stir Often: Lentils can stick to the pot, so give it a good stir every few minutes to avoid burning.
- Add Sweetener to Taste: Start with less sugar and add more if needed; everyone’s sweetness preference is different.
How to Pressure Cook Breakfast Lentils
For an even easier prep, try making breakfast lentils in a pressure cooker! Add red split lentils, water or plant-based milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar to the pressure cooker. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 2 minutes. Let the pressure naturally release for about 10 minutes to achieve a creamy, tender consistency.
Once done, stir the mixture and serve with your favorite toppings, like a splash of coconut milk or chopped walnuts, for a cozy and satisfying breakfast.
If you're into legumes, check out our pressure cooker black bean recipe!
What To Eat With Breakfast Lentils
Top your breakfast lentils with your favorite mix-ins! A handful of chopped nuts, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of chia seeds make excellent additions. Pair this cozy bowl with a warm cup of chai or ginger tea to complete the breakfast experience.
Recipe FAQs
Red split lentils are very soft, tender, and take on any of the flavors you give to them. Additionally, they cook relatively fast in comparison to other lentil varieties.
You can find red split lentils at most big-box grocery stores like Walmart, Target, and Trader Joe’s, often in the dry legumes section. They’re also available at many Asian grocery stores and online through retailers like Amazon.
Lentils do not need to be soaked, especially red split lentils. Red split lentils cook very quickly – just a few minutes.
Yes, lentils are a great choice in the morning as they provide a high amount of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates to keep you full and energized. They’re versatile and can be used in breakfast bowls, savory porridge, or added to veggie-packed scrambles.
Lentils are high in fiber, plant-based protein, and essential minerals, which are excellent for heart and gut health. While eggs offer complete protein and healthy fats, lentils have no cholesterol and are often preferred for their fiber and iron content.
All lentil colors have health benefits, but green and black lentils typically contain the highest levels of fiber and antioxidants. Each variety has a unique nutrient profile, so eating a mix can be beneficial.
More Porridge Recipes
Looking for something a little bit different? Be sure to check out our Blueberry Banana Bread, Mushroom Bacon, Chia Seed Pumpkin Muffins, Tofu Scramble, and Gluten-Free Vegan Banana Pancakes.
Our quinoa porridge is also a winner!
Tried out this Breakfast Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar recipe?
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Breakfast Red Split Lentils
Ingredients
- 1 cup red split lentils
- 3 cups water/vegan milk
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 4 teaspoon brown sugar adjust to preference
- Splash of coconut milk
- Chopped walnuts
Instructions
- In a saucepan or pot over high heat, stir together red split lentils and water/vegan milk.
- Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Once at a boil, lower heat to medium. Cook and stir for 15 minutes, or until creamy and tender.
- Optional: Add your favorite porridge toppings! I added a splash of coconut milk and chopped walnuts.
- To pressure cook: Stir in the lentils, liquid, spices, and brown sugar. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 2 minutes. Allow a natural release for about 10 minutes. Once done, give it a good stir, and serve with your favorite toppings like a splash of coconut milk or chopped walnuts for extra richness.
Notes
- Feel free to use any sweetener of choice and use as much or as little as you prefer.
- For a creamier breakfast red split lentils, add a splash of coconut milk.
Vegan Carne Guisada (Meatless “Beef” Stew)
A W
Spoiler alert - it tastes like lentils. I know, I know - shocker! I really like lentils, and I really wanted to like this because it's a grain free, high protein, high fiber breakfast. It is FULL of all the good stuff. But the flavor is 🫤. I'm going to pass on this one.
Aly Michell
Totally fair feedback, and I appreciate you trying it out and being honest about it. Glad you gave it a shot though, and I hope you find a high-protein breakfast that checks all of your boxes.