Center Stage

     Here's a healthy and simple meal that showcases celery's versatility.  It makes a great Lenten dinner.  The toasty flavor of caramelized celery pairs well with earthy lentils with a creative finishing touch of dill, maple and cider vinegar.

Caramelized Celery with Lentils

Ingredients

7 1/2 oz beluga lentils (about 1 cup)

1 Tbsp unsalted butter

1 Tbsp olive oil

8 oz celery, sliced 1/4" thick on a slight diagonal (about 2 cups)

1 Tbsp cider vinegar; more as needed

2 tsp pure maple syrup

1 Tbsp chopped fresh dill

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

In a medium saucepan, bring 6 cups water to a boil.  Add the lentils and simmer, adjusting the heat as needed, until just tender, 20 to 25 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a 12" skillet, heat the butter and oil over medium-high heat until the butter melts.  Add the celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown in places, about 5 minutes.  Add the vinegar and maple syrup, and cook until the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 2 minutes.  Remove from the heat and toss with the lentils, dill, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper.  

Season to taste with more vinegar, salt and pepper, and serve.

Serves 6

Recipe courtesy of Fine Cooking, February/ March 2016.