Rice-Lentil Pilaf

In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Rinse tomatoes, wipe dry and cut out the stems. 

Use a sharp knife to score an X on the bottom of each tomato. 

With a skimmer, gently place the tomatoes into boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove and immediately plunge into a bowl of ice water. 

Allow tomatoes to cool slightly, then remove skins.

Halve the tomatoes, scoop out the seeds and coarsely chop tomatoes. 

Peel the ginger root and shallot. Grate the ginger and finely dice the shallot. Heat 1 teaspoon oil in the pot. Sauté ginger and shallot until translucent. Add tomatoes and season with salt and pepper, then cover and cook over low heat until tomatoes soften and form a sauce, about 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, peel the onion and garlic, chop finely and sauté in a large pan with 1 tablespoon oil until translucent.

Add lentils to pan and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.

Add turmeric and rice to pan, stirring to combine.