Lentil and harissa pâté

This is a really good pâté, that I invented one Christmas. The harissa gives it an unusual flavour, without making it too overpowering.

Serves 4 or more as a dip or starter

 

1/2 cup split lentils

1/2 onion, diced finely

1 cup water

chilli flakes to taste

1/4 tsp garlic granules

1 tsp harissa seasoning

1 tbsp ground flax seed 

salt and generous grind black pepper

1 tbsp tomato purée

1 tbsp lemon juice

 

Method: 

• Add the lentils, onion, water, chilli and garlic to a pan. Cover and cook over a low heat until the lentils are soft and the water absorbed.
• Remove from the heat and add the harissa and the ground flax seed. Mix thoroughly. The flax seed adds a bit of body: if you prefer the pâté to be softer, omit it.
• Add the tomato purée and lemon juice and let the mixture cool before serving with bread or crackers.