Looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that will warm your soul? Dive into the vibrant world of Spanish cuisine with our irresistible Green Lentil Stew with Chorizo! This delightful recipe combines the earthy goodness of green lentils with the smoky, spicy notes of chorizo, creating a comforting stew that's perfect for any occasion. In just under an hour, you can whip up a meal that serves four and will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- 6 oz chorizo, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the green lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris, then set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sliced chorizo and cook for 3-4 minutes until it releases its oils and starts to crisp slightly, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pot with chorizo drippings, add chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables become soft and onions turn translucent.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika over the vegetables and stir to combine, allowing the spice to bloom for about 30 seconds to release its aromatic qualities.
- Add rinsed green lentils to the pot and pour in vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for approximately 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Return the crispy chorizo to the pot and stir gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse your green lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris or impurities. This step ensures a clean and tasty stew.
- Crisp the Chorizo: For maximum flavor, allow the chorizo to crisp up in the pot before adding the vegetables. The oils released will enhance the overall taste of your stew.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Don't rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to soften and develop their flavors before adding the smoked paprika.
- Bloom the Spices: When you add the smoked paprika, let it bloom in the oil for about 30 seconds. This technique releases its aromatic qualities and intensifies the flavor of your stew.
- Check Lentil Texture: Keep an eye on the lentils while they simmer. You want them tender but still holding their shape—avoid overcooking for the best texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the stew sit for about 5 minutes after cooking. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Garnish for Presentation: Serve your stew in deep bowls and consider garnishing with fresh parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a burst of color and added flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg
