That Lentil Casserole - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 3/4 cups vegetable broth or 2 3/4 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups brown rice
1 lb bacon (optional)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 lb dried brown lentils or 1 lb dry green lentils
6 cups water
salt
pepper
garlic powder, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 zucchini, halved and sliced
1 medium white onion, chopped
1/4 cup lemon juice
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated and divided

Preparation

Bring broth to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 50 minutes or until rice is tender and all liquid has been absorbed.
Dice bacon, if using and lightly saute (perhaps 5 minutes)in large pot or dutch oven. Add lentils, cumin, oregano, and water. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to a slow simmer. Cook for 45-60 minutes, adding more water if needed.
10-15 minutes before lentils are done, heat oil in frying pan and saute zucchini and onion until hot yet still crisp (about 5 minutes).
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
When lentils are tender, add lemon juice, rice, 3/4 of the cheese, and zucchini, mixing well. Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
Turn mixture into 9x13 dish and top with remaining cheese.
Bake for 15-20 minutes.