Lentil Stew: A Hearty and Healthy Recipe for Cozy Nights
Are you looking for a delicious, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than this lentil stew recipe! This hearty stew is packed with flavor and protein, making it a satisfying and wholesome option for the whole family. It's also incredibly versatile – feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables and spices.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and comforting lentil stew:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Lentils and Broth
Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips and Variations for Your Lentil Stew
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat, or experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or curry powder.
- Boost the veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Add some greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream before serving.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve your lentil stew with crusty bread for dipping, a side salad, or a dollop of plain yogurt.
Why This Lentil Stew Recipe is a Winner
This lentil stew is not only incredibly tasty but also offers a wealth of health benefits. Lentils are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and iron, making this stew a nutritious and satisfying meal. It's also a great option for meal prepping – it tastes even better the next day!
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