The combination of lentils with rice or bulgur is the absolute

Host: The soft glow of the evening light fills the room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The sounds of the day outside are gradually fading as the world outside quiets down. Jeeny sits comfortably on the couch, her legs curled underneath her, a cup of tea resting on the table in front of her. Jack, standing near the window, watches the darkening world, his mind clearly engaged in something deeper. The air between them feels expectant, as though a meaningful conversation is waiting to unfold.

Jeeny: “Jack, I came across a quote from Yotam Ottolenghi today that made me think,” she says, drawing his attention. “He said, ‘The combination of lentils with rice or bulgur is the absolute height of Levantine comfort food. I could eat it every day.’ What do you think about that?”

Jack: He turns, a thoughtful look on his face. “Lentils and rice or bulgur? That sounds so simple, but it’s something so familiar. There’s this feeling of comfort in the idea of basic food that’s satisfying, that can be enjoyed every day. I get why he says it’s the height of comfort food — it’s the kind of meal that fills you up, keeps you warm, and is simple but nourishing.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. The simplicity of it is what makes it special. It’s not about fancy ingredients or elaborate preparations, but about the combination of flavors and textures that bring comfort. Lentils, rice, and bulgur have a kind of earthiness to them that’s grounding, familiar, and full of history. It’s the kind of food that connects you to something deeper than just nutrition.”

Host: The light in the room deepens, the conversation shifting from the ingredients themselves to the idea of food as something more than just sustenance. The idea of comfort food as a source of connection and nourishment feels almost like a shared experience — something simple, yet profound in its ability to bring warmth and meaning.

Jack: “It’s almost like food that’s been passed down, right? It’s not just about filling your stomach; it’s about tradition, family, and culture. That combination of lentils and rice or bulgur seems like something that ties you to a larger story — something that’s been part of Levantine cooking for generations.”

Jeeny: “Yes, and there’s something comforting about eating something that’s so rooted in culture. Even though it’s a humble meal, there’s a history behind it. It reminds you that comfort doesn’t have to come from complexity. Sometimes, it’s the simplest meals — the ones you could eat every day — that carry the most meaning.”

Host: The soft warmth in the room seems to reflect their conversation, as though the idea of comfort food has become something more than just food. It’s about connection to culture, to tradition, and to the simple joys of life. The idea that comfort can be found in something as basic as lentils and rice feels like a reminder of the power of simplicity and connection.

Jack: “I love that. It’s kind of like a reminder that comfort doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it’s the simple things — the familiar, the daily rituals — that bring us the most joy. And with food, it’s like it brings us closer to home, no matter where we are.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best things in life are the simplest. A meal like that can ground you and bring you back to a place of peace, even when everything else feels busy or complicated.”

Host: The room feels even quieter now, a shared understanding settling between Jeeny and Jack. The simple combination of lentils and rice or bulgur, as Yotam Ottolenghi describes, has become more than just a meal. It’s a symbol of connection — to family, to tradition, and to the simplicity that nourishes us, body and soul. The meal may be simple, but the comfort it provides goes much deeper, offering warmth in both the food and the feelings it brings with it.