Family Lentil Bake with Paprika Turkey, Roasted Cauliflower and Cheesy Yuca Topping

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 220°C / 425°F. Place the cauliflower on a baking tray, toss it with 15 ml (1 tbsp) olive oil, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Roast for 20 minutes, until browned on the edges.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, place the lentils in a pot with 500 ml (2 cups) broth and the bay leaves. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and cook for 25 to 30 minutes until tender but still holding their shape. Remove the bay leaves and set aside.

3. 3

   Place the yuca in another pot with enough water to cover it and a pinch of salt. Boil and cook for 25 to 30 minutes until very tender. Drain, remove any tough inner fibers, and mash with the butter, milk, 70 g (2.5 oz) of the Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Keep warm.

4. 4

   Lower the oven temperature to 200°C / 400°F.

5. 5

   In a large skillet or wide pot, heat the remaining 15 ml (1 tbsp) olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrot, and celery for 6 to 8 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute more.

6. 6

   Add the ground turkey and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until no pink remains. Stir in the sweet paprika, cumin, dried oregano, the remaining salt, and more black pepper to taste.

7. 7

   Pour in the tomato puree and the remaining 250 ml (1 cup) broth. Cook for 5 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly. Add the cooked lentils and roasted cauliflower, stir well, and adjust salt.

8. 8

   Transfer the turkey, lentil, and cauliflower mixture to a baking dish about 33 x 23 cm (13 x 9 in). Spread the yuca mash evenly on top. Finish with the remaining 70 g (2.5 oz) Oaxaca or mozzarella, the rest of the Parmesan, and the chopped chives.

9. 9

   Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 20 minutes, until the filling is bubbling and the top is golden. For extra color, broil for 2 to 3 additional minutes, watching closely.

10. 10

    Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so the bake can set and be easier to portion.