Hearty Lentil Stew

This lentil stew is a comforting, protein-rich dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Packed with tender lentils, hearty vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s a one-pot meal that brings warmth and depth of flavor to any dinner table. Perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, this stew is easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep or weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lentil stew is a staple comfort dish for several reasons:

• It’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it filling and nutritious.

• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

• Highly customizable to your preferences and dietary needs.

• Makes excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day.

• Ideal for cold weather but delicious year-round.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Green or brown lentils

• Olive oil

• Yellow onion

• Garlic cloves

• Carrots

• Celery stalks

• Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

• Vegetable broth or water

• Bay leaf

• Ground cumin

• Dried thyme

• Smoked paprika

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and set aside.

2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.

3. Add minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Stir in the cumin, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

5. Add diced tomatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot.

6. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 35–40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

7. Adjust seasoning to taste. If desired, use a hand blender to partially purée the stew for a thicker texture.

8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add greens: Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño for heat.

• Hearty addition: Include diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a richer stew.

• Protein boost: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans.

• Meaty option: Include browned ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken for a non-vegetarian version.

storage/reheating

Allow the lentil stew to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture.

FAQs

What type of lentils work best for stew?

Green or brown lentils are ideal because they hold their shape well and have a hearty texture. Avoid red lentils as they tend to break down and become mushy.

Do I need to soak lentils before cooking?

No, soaking is not necessary for green or brown lentils. Just rinse them before cooking to remove any debris.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, simply sauté the aromatics first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure that your broth and spices are certified gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

How can I thicken the stew?

You can mash some of the cooked lentils with a spoon or use an immersion blender to purée a portion of the stew.

Can I use canned lentils?

Canned lentils can be used, but since they are already cooked, add them during the last 10 minutes of simmering to avoid overcooking.

What can I serve with lentil stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a side salad for a balanced meal.

Can I use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, if you’re not following a vegetarian diet, you can use any broth you prefer for added flavor.

Can I make this stew oil-free?

Yes, you can sauté the vegetables in a bit of water or broth instead of oil for an oil-free version.

Why is my stew too thick or thin?

The consistency can vary depending on the type of lentils and amount of liquid used. Add more broth if it’s too thick, or simmer longer if too thin.

Conclusion

This hearty lentil stew is a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. With wholesome ingredients, deep flavor, and plenty of room for customization, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers comfort and nutrition in every spoonful

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