Lentil Rice Surprise

Yield: 6 servings

1 c Lentils, dried
1/4 c Water
1 md Onion
Garlic clove, chopped
3 x Celery stalks, chopped
28 oz Tomato, canned
1 ts Dill weed
3 c Rice, cooked
1 c Bread crumbs

Cover lentils with water, bring to a boil, cover, simmer over low heat about 1-1 1/2 hours until tender. Drain liquid, reserving 1/2 cup.

Heat 1/4 c water in large pot, add onion, garlic and celery. Cook over medium-low heat until tender, about 15 minutes. Add tomatoes, drained lentils, 1/2 c lentil water, cooked rice and dill weed. Mix well.

Using a 3 quart casserole, sprinkle a few breadcrumbs over the bottom. Pour lentil-rice mixture into the casserole. Sprinkle the rest of the crumbs over the top. Bake at 350F for 45 minutes.

HELPFUL HINT: This may be made ahead of time and cooked when cold. Add 15 minutes to oven cooking time.