Name: Hearty Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices; 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale; Juice of 1/2 lemon; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

There is something wonderfully comforting about a steaming bowl of Lentil Stew. This dish combines nutritious lentils with an assortment of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, creating a symphony of flavors that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also warms the heart. Whether you are preparing a cozy dinner for your family or a hearty meal for friends, this Lentil Stew is guaranteed to impress. Its Mediterranean-inspired ingredients offer a delicious, wholesome twist that will leave everyone in delight. Easy to make and nourish, this stew is perfect for any occasion and is an excellent source of protein and fiber, making it an ideal dish for both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

In just under an hour, you’ll transform simple ingredients into a vibrant, delicious meal that’s packed with nutrients. The beauty of homemade stew lies in its versatility—you can customize it to accommodate your family’s tastes or dietary needs. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or cozy weeknight meals. So, if you’re looking to add a hearty, wholesome dish to your recipe collection, this Lentil Stew is the answer. Get ready to indulge in a warm bowl of goodness that’s sure to give you all the feels.

Why You’ll Love This Lentil Stew

Here are some great reasons to love this hearty and comforting dish:

Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lentils, vegetables, and spinach, this stew is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
Simply Delicious: The combination of spices like cumin and smoked paprika adds depth and flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
Versatile: Customize ingredients easily based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch to last the week; it stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer.
Family-Friendly: With its comforting texture and familiar flavors, it’s a dish that the whole family will love.
Budget-Friendly: A low-cost meal using pantry staples that won’t break the bank.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools. Start by clearing and cleaning your workspace to ensure you have a neat environment to work in. For this recipe, you will need a large pot or Dutch oven to cook your stew, as it allows even heating and is perfect for simmering. A cutting board and a sharp knife will help you dice the vegetables efficiently, while measuring cups and spoons are crucial for accurately portioning your ingredients. Don’t forget to have a can opener handy for the tomatoes!

Gather all ingredients beforehand, including rinsing and draining the lentils. This step is important to remove any impurities and ensures that your stew will change from good to exceptional. Having everything at your fingertips streamlines the cooking process and will save you time in the long run.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this hearty Lentil Stew:

1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale
Juice of 1/2 lemon
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened and the onion turns translucent. This step is crucial as it lays the flavor foundation for the rest of your stew. After the vegetables have softened, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to enhance the base with your lentils and spices. Stir in the rinsed lentils, canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, broth, cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and allow your stew to simmer for about 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot; stirring occasionally can help with this.

Step 3: Incorporate Greens and Season

After the lentils are tender, it’s time to add the fresh greens. Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. At this stage, add salt, pepper to taste, and the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. The lemon juice adds an extra zing and balances the earthiness of the lentils beautifully. Finally, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving!

Variations

Mix things up by trying these exciting variations of the Lentil Stew:

Protein: Add cooked sausage, chicken, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Vegetables: Feel free to include diced bell peppers, zucchini, or squashes for added flavor and texture.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like curry powder or chili powder for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

Here are a few important notes to optimize your cooking experience:

Always rinse lentils before use to remove dust and impurities.
If you have extra time, consider soaking the lentils beforehand to shorten the cooking time.
Adjust the consistency of the stew to your liking; add more broth if you prefer it soupy.
The stew tastes even better the next day, so consider making a double batch!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this delicious Lentil Stew with:

Crusty bread for dipping, enhancing the texture and flavor combination.
A fresh side salad with a lemon vinaigrette to brighten up the meal.

Tips

Here are some tips to elevate your cooking:

Use high-quality broth for a richer flavor profile.
Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.
Consider topping with avocado or a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 250
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I freeze leftover Lentil Stew?

Yes! Lentil Stew freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled down before transferring it to airtight containers.

How long will Lentil Stew last in the fridge?

It typically lasts about 4-5 days in the refrigerator, making it great for meal prep.

Can I use red lentils instead of brown or green?

Yes, red lentils will work, but they cook faster and result in a different texture.

What can I pair with Lentil Stew?

It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even over rice for a filling meal.

Conclusion

In summary, this Lentil Stew is a hearty and wholesome recipe that is sure to delight anyone who tries it. It’s a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that captures the essence of comfort food while still being nutritious. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your ingredients and personalize it to your taste. Whether you’re serving it at dinner or enjoying it for lunch throughout the week, there’s always something satisfying about a good stew. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how your Lentil Stew turned out. Happy cooking!