Warm up your kitchen and your soul with a delightful bowl of Lentil and Vegetable Stew! This hearty, global-inspired dish is not just a feast for your taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrition, perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep for the week ahead. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this stew is bound to become a family favorite. Ready in just an hour, you’ll discover how simple ingredients can create a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and good for you. Dive into our recipe and unlock the secret to this deliciously wholesome dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Global
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 potato, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold running water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Add diced carrots and potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes to begin softening the vegetables.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the lentils and vegetables for tenderness. The lentils should be soft but not mushy, and the vegetables should be easily pierced with a fork.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Choose Your Lentils Wisely: While any type of lentils can work, green or brown lentils hold their shape better and provide a nice texture to the stew. Avoid red lentils if you prefer a chunkier stew!
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge. You can also rinse and soak the lentils a few hours before cooking to reduce cooking time.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a teaspoon of cumin or paprika during the simmering process. A splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the dish beautifully.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the stew to simmer gently helps all the flavors meld together. Keep the heat low and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the stew. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the dish even further!
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize the stew by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or even incorporating some cooked grains like quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
