Description

This lentil stew is a deliciously hearty, nourishing dish perfect for any season. Rich with vegetables, aromatic spices, and tender lentils, it’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet comforting enough for cozy weekends. With its versatile flavors, you can adjust vegetables, spices, and herbs to your taste, making it a flexible recipe for everyone. Ideal for meal prep or serving fresh, this stew warms both the heart and the belly.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Stir in spices and herbs, toasting for about a minute.
Add lentils and broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Simmer for 35-40 minutes until lentils are tender.
Add tomatoes and simmer another 10 minutes.
Adjust seasoning and stir in lemon juice or vinegar.
Remove bay leaves and garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

Adjust the consistency with more broth or water if needed.
Let the stew rest for flavors to meld before serving.
Freeze in portions for easy future meals.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stove-top
Cuisine: International Comfort Food

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4-6
Calories: 230
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.7g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 14g
Protein: 13g
Cholesterol: 0mg