Fragrant Lamb Pilaf

Add the basmati rice to the pan and stir to make sure it gets nicely coated in the spices. Then add the water (see ingredients for amount). Bring to the boil, add the chicken stock powder and stir to dissolve. Lower the heat to medium and pop a lid on. Cook for 10 mins then remove the pan from the heat and set aside for another 10 mins. The rice will finish cooking in its own steam. This is your pilaf!

While your pilaf cooks, finish off your last few jobs. Peel and grate the garlic (or use a garlic press ). Pick the mint leaves from their stalks and finely chop (discard the stalks). Halve the lemon. Drain the lentils in a colander, rinse under cold water and set aside.

Heat a splash of oil in another frying pan over medium heat. Add the remaining onion and cook until softened, 5 mins. Stir frequently to make sure they don't burn. Add the baby spinach and cook for 2 mins before adding the garlic. Cook until the spinach has wilted completely then stir in the lentils. Carry on cooking until the lentils are piping hot, 1-2 mins. Season to taste with salt and pepper and set aside.

Put the yoghurt in a small bowl and mix in half the mint and a pinch of the remaining turmeric. Season with salt and pepper then set aside. When the pilaf is ready, fluff it up with a fork, then carefully add the lentil mixture, remaining mint and a squeeze of lemon juice. Taste and add more salt, pepper or lemon juice if you fancy.