Save A comforting, nourishing stew packed with earthy lentils, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs—perfect for chilly evenings or a wholesome weeknight meal.
This stew keeps well flavors deepen overnight
Ingredients
- Legumes: 1 cup (200 g) dried brown or green lentils rinsed
- Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 large onion diced, 2 garlic cloves minced, 2 carrots diced, 2 celery stalks diced, 2 medium potatoes peeled and cubed, 1 red bell pepper diced, 1 zucchini diced, 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes with juice
- Liquids: 5 cups (1.25 L) vegetable broth
- Herbs & Spices: 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 bay leaf, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 cups (60 g) chopped kale or spinach, Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat Add onion and garlic sauté 3 4 minutes until softened and fragrant
- Step 2:
- Add carrots celery potatoes bell pepper and zucchini Cook for 5 minutes stirring occasionally
- Step 3:
- Stir in lentils diced tomatoes (with juice) vegetable broth thyme oregano bay leaf smoked paprika salt and pepper
- Step 4:
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low Cover and simmer for 30 35 minutes or until lentils and vegetables are tender
- Step 5:
- If using add kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking
- Step 6:
- Remove bay leaf Stir in lemon juice adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot
Save This stew is a family favorite especially on cold winter nights
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven Wooden spoon Chefs knife Cutting board
Allergen Information
Naturally free from common allergens such as gluten dairy eggs nuts and soy If using store-bought broth check for potential allergen cross-contamination
Nutritional Information
Calories 280 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 48 g Protein 13 g per serving
Save This hearty stew is perfect for meal prep and warms the soul on cold evenings
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different lentils for this dish?
Yes, both brown and green lentils work well, offering similar texture and cooking times for a hearty result.
- → What are good vegetable substitutes in this stew?
Sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes, and seasonal vegetables like squash or eggplant can add variety.
- → How can I enhance the flavor of the stew?
Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of chili flakes brings extra depth and a mild kick to the flavor.
- → When should leafy greens be added?
Stir kale or spinach into the stew during the last 5 minutes of cooking to retain their color and nutrients.
- → Is this dish suitable for special diets?
Yes, it is naturally vegan and gluten-free, and free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, nuts, and soy.
- → How long should I simmer the lentils and vegetables?
Simmer covered on low heat for 30–35 minutes until lentils and vegetables are tender and flavors meld.