Hearty Vegetarian Lentil Stew

This Vegetarian Lentil Stew is a hearty, nourishing dish brimming with tender lentils, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Perfectly balanced between a soup and a stew, it provides ultimate comfort and a significant boost of plant-based protein for any cozy dinner.

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Preparing this meal takes about 20 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome one-hour dinner. The smoky aroma of paprika combined with earthy cumin makes this international dish a flavorful favorite.

Ingredients

• Legumes: 1 ½ cups (300 g) dried brown or green lentils, rinsed; 4 cups (1 L) vegetable broth
• Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed; 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes; 2 cups (60 g) chopped spinach or kale
• Spices & Seasonings: 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, until vegetables soften.

Step 2

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 3

Add potatoes, lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaf, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.

Step 4

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils and potatoes are tender.

Step 5

Remove bay leaf. Stir in spinach or kale and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.

Step 6

Season with salt and pepper. Adjust consistency with extra broth or water if desired.

Step 7

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving. This acidity helps brighten the earthy tones of the lentils and spices.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily substitute sweet potato for the regular potato if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile and a slightly different texture.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this stew hot in deep bowls. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, which is ideal for soaking up the rich, tomato-based broth.

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With only 320 calories per serving and 6g of total fat, this Vegetarian Lentil Stew is a guilt-free way to enjoy a comforting meal. It is a versatile dish that works well for meal prepping as the flavors often deepen after a day in the refrigerator.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use red lentils instead of brown or green?

Red lentils cook faster and break down more, creating a creamier texture. If using red lentils, reduce cooking time to 20-25 minutes and expect a thicker, more porridge-like consistency rather than distinct lentils in broth.

→ How do I store leftover lentil stew?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The stew thickens when chilled, so add extra broth or water when reheating. It also freezes well for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use water with added bouillon cubes, mushroom broth for deeper umami flavor, or even diluted tomato juice. Adjust seasonings accordingly as broth contributes significant flavor to the final dish.

→ How can I make this stew thicker?

Mash some of the cooked lentils and potatoes against the pot side with your spoon, or simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce liquid. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste for body and richness.

→ Can I add meat to this stew?

Absolutely. Brown diced chicken, turkey sausage, or cubed beef before adding vegetables, then proceed with the original method. You may need to increase cooking time for tougher cuts of meat to ensure tenderness.

→ What other greens work besides spinach or kale?

Swiss chard, collard greens, or beet greens all work beautifully. Heartier greens may need a few extra minutes to wilt. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro added at the end provide brightness and fresh flavor.