Farro and Lentils With Jammy Onions

Step 1

Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Using a vegetable peeler, peel 1-inch-wide strips of zest from the lemon. In a large Dutch oven or skillet, heat the olive oil, onions, lemon peel and red-pepper flakes over medium. Season with salt and pepper, and cover. When you hear sizzling, uncover, reduce heat, and gently simmer, stirring occasionally, until the onions are very soft and golden at the edges, 20 to 25 minutes. If at any point the onions risk burning, reduce heat and add 1 or 2 teaspoons of water. Remove from heat.

Step 2

Once the water’s boiling, add the lentils and farro and simmer, uncovered, until al dente, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain in a colander, rinse under cold water until cool, shake very dry, and season with salt.

Step 3

Pluck out the lemon peel from the onions and coarsely chop. Add the chopped peel, farro and lentils to the onions. Stir to combine, then add lemon juice, to taste, about 2 to 4 tablespoons. Season to taste with salt and pepper.