Embark on a culinary journey of comfort and warmth with our Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes. This recipe embodies the ultimate home-cooked meal, merging the earthiness of lentils with the creamy richness of mashed potatoes. The combination offers a symphony of flavors and textures that make for a hearty, nourishing dish. It’s the kind of meal that soothes the soul and brings a sense of joy and satisfaction to every bite.
This recipe’s appeal lies not only in its comforting nature but also in its simplicity. By using everyday ingredients, it delivers robust flavor without demanding too much time or effort. The lentil stew, simmering with aromatic herbs and tender vegetables, pairs beautifully with the smooth, buttery mashed potatoes. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking to spice up your meal prep, this dish stands as a testament to how simple ingredients can deliver complex, delightful flavors.
Beyond taste, our focus on nutrition makes it a winner. Lentils provide an excellent source of protein and fiber, while the selection of fresh vegetables adds vitamins and minerals. This meal is not just comforting but also nourishing, making it a perfect choice for those who crave both delicious and wholesome food.
Why You’ll Love This Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes
- Hearty and Filling: A perfect meal for cold days, promising warmth with every bite.
- Easy to Make: Uses staple pantry ingredients, without needing complex cooking skills.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
- Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients ensure a gourmet experience without breaking the bank.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to set up your kitchen space efficiently. Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients and tools. You’ll need a large pot for the stew, a medium-sized pot for the potatoes, a sharp knife for chopping the vegetables, and a good potato masher. Having these tools on hand will streamline your cooking process and help you maintain a tidy workspace.
Make sure your vegetables are washed and your station is clean. Organize your ingredients: keep the vegetables together, measure out the spices, and have your broth, tomatoes, and lentils ready to go. This preparation ensures a smooth flow during the cooking process and helps you focus on the task without missing steps. Keeping your kitchen organized not only enhances efficiency but also makes the cooking experience more enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- ½ cup milk
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup dry green or brown lentils
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Begin by placing the peeled and chopped potatoes in a pot of boiling water. Cook them until they become tender, typically in 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash vigorously until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, sliced carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally, allowing them to soften over the course of around five to seven minutes. This process develops their flavors, essential for a tasty stew. Once softened, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute to release its aroma.
Step 3: Simmer the Stew
Incorporate the dry lentils, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf into the pot. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let the stew cook for 25 to 30 minutes. This allows the lentils to soften and absorb the stew’s flavor, transforming each bite into a savory delight.
Step 4: Serve the Dish
Once the lentils are tender, remove the bay leaf and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. To serve, spoon generous portions of the stew over a bed of mashed potatoes. The sum of these parts delivers a meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and satisfying.
Variations
- Protein: Add shredded chicken or beef for a non-vegetarian twist, enriching the stew with additional flavors.
- Vegetables: Consider adding peas or spinach for an extra pop of color and nutrients.
- Spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika could add a little heat and complexity.
Cooking Notes
- To ensure plump and tender lentils, do not boil them too harshly as it can cause them to split.
- Mash potatoes while they’re hot for the best creamy texture, and consider incorporating some roasted garlic for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness of the stew.
- Offer crusty bread on the side to complement the meal and soak up the delicious stew.
Tips
- Consider preparing the stew ahead of time as it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.
- Double the batch to have leftovers for convenient, reheatable meals throughout the week.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: Around 15g per serving
- Sodium: Varies depending on added salt and broth
FAQs
Can I use red lentils instead?
Absolutely! Red lentils will cook faster and become quite soft, contributing to a creamier texture in the stew.
Can I freeze lentil stew?
Yes, lentil stew freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
What if my stew is too thick?
If your stew thickens too much, simply add a bit more vegetable broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your broth is certified gluten-free if needed.
Conclusion
This Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes recipe stands out for its heartiness, warmth, and simplicity. This comforting dish is perfect for making mealtime both delicious and nutritious, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients or spices to tailor it to your taste.
We encourage you to try this recipe, share it with family and friends, and explore the various ways you can make it your own. Consider leaving a comment to let others know how yours turned out or share any unique twists you’ve added. Whether it’s for a special family dinner or a cozy night in, this lentil stew over mashed potatoes promises to become a household favorite.
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Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty dish combines lentils with creamy mashed potatoes, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- ½ cup milk
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup dry green or brown lentils
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
- Begin by placing the peeled and chopped potatoes in a pot of boiling water. Cook them until they become tender, typically in 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash vigorously until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, sliced carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally, allowing them to soften over the course of around five to seven minutes. This process develops their flavors, essential for a tasty stew. Once softened, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Incorporate the dry lentils, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf into the pot. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let the stew cook for 25 to 30 minutes. This allows the lentils to soften and absorb the stew’s flavor, transforming each bite into a savory delight.
- Once the lentils are tender, remove the bay leaf and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. To serve, spoon generous portions of the stew over a bed of mashed potatoes. The sum of these parts delivers a meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and satisfying.
Notes
Consider preparing the stew ahead of time as it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: Varies depending on added salt and broth
- Protein: 15 g