01 -
Heat a medium saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add finely chopped onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, ensuring it does not brown.
02 -
Stir in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, and ground cumin, toasting the spices for about 30 seconds to release their flavors. Add rinsed lentils and stir for 1 to 2 minutes until lentils are coated and lightly toasted.
03 -
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lentils are tender but retain some bite. Remove from heat and season generously with salt and black pepper.
04 -
While lentils are cooking, prepare the toppings. For the eggs: poach, soft boil, or fry until the yolks remain runny. For the spinach: heat a teaspoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add fresh spinach and a pinch of salt, and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until wilted. Squeeze out any excess moisture.
05 -
Spoon a generous portion of warm lentils into each bowl. Create a well in the center for the sautéed spinach. Top with the cooked egg and arrange avocado alongside. Sprinkle with crumbled feta, fresh herbs, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.