lentilcentric

Lentilcentric is an adjective used to describe ideas, practices, or movements in which lentils are placed at the center. The term blends 'lentil' with the suffix -centric to signal centrality rather than marginal status.

In diet and nutrition, a lentilcentric approach prioritizes lentils as a primary protein source and staple ingredient. Lentils offer notable amounts of protein, fiber, iron, and folate, and are commonly paired with grains to provide a complete amino acid profile. Such approaches emphasize affordability, versatility, and nutrient density, and are often combined with vegetables, herbs, and other plant foods to balance flavor and nutrition.

In cuisine, lentil-centric cooking appears in traditional dishes such as dals, soups, stews, and salads across various regions. It is also a feature of modern plant-based menus that highlight lentils as a primary ingredient in burgers, patties, and meat substitutes, as well as in regional preparations from the Middle East, South Asia, and the Mediterranean.

In agriculture and sustainability, lentil-centric farming prioritizes lentil production in crop rotations due to the legume’s nitrogen-fixing properties, drought tolerance, and relatively low input needs. These characteristics can contribute to soil health, reduce reliance on animal protein, and support diversified farming systems.

Overall, lentilcentric describes a focus on lentils as a central element in food systems or agricultural practices, a concept that appears in nutrition guides, culinary discourse, and sustainability discussions rather than as a formal taxonomy.