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To make a tasty Easy Lentil Stew, you need the right ingredients. Here’s what you will need: - 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 onion, finely chopped - 2 carrots, diced - 2 celery stalks, diced - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 bay leaf - 4 cups vegetable broth - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes - 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, for garnish Each ingredient plays a key role in making this stew flavorful and hearty. Lentils are the star of this dish. They are packed with protein and fiber. You can use green or brown lentils, both work great. The olive oil helps to sauté the vegetables, unlocking their natural sweetness. Onions, carrots, and celery form the classic base for many soups and stews. They add depth and flavor. Garlic brings a nice aroma. The cumin and smoked paprika add warmth and a smoky flavor. The bay leaf infuses the stew with a subtle earthiness. Vegetable broth adds richness. The diced tomatoes contribute acidity, balancing the flavors. Adding kale or spinach at the end gives the stew a fresh touch and a pop of color. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper! And finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a bright finish. You can find the Full Recipe for this hearty dish to guide you through the cooking process. Setting Up Your Cooking Space Start by gathering all your ingredients. Lay them out so you can see everything. This makes cooking easier. You will need a large pot, a cutting board, and a sharp knife. Having a tidy space helps you focus on the dish. Importance of Rinsing Lentils Rinsing lentils is key. It removes dust and small stones. Place the lentils in a fine mesh strainer. Rinse them under cool water for a few minutes. This step ensures your stew tastes clean and fresh. Sautéing the Vegetables In your pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to soften and release their flavors. This forms the base of your stew. Adding Spices and Lentils Once the vegetables are soft, stir in the minced garlic. Add ground cumin, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Cook for one minute until you smell the spices. Now, add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine. Simmering the Stew Bring this mixture to a boil. When it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. Check the lentils often. They should be tender but not mushy. Incorporating Greens With about 5 minutes left, add the chopped kale or spinach. Stir it in until it wilts. This adds color and nutrition to your stew. Adjusting Seasoning Before Serving Taste your stew before serving. Add salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf for a clean finish. Your Easy Lentil Stew is now ready! For the full recipe, refer to the previous section. To make your stew even better, try adding extra spices. A pinch of cayenne adds heat. For a smoky taste, consider adding a bit of chipotle powder. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance flavor. Using homemade vegetable broth is another great choice. It adds depth and richness. You can easily make broth by simmering vegetable scraps with water. This gives your stew a unique, fresh taste. Sautéing is key to building flavor. Always start with high heat to soften your onions and veggies. Stir them often to avoid burning. This step unlocks the flavors in your ingredients. Cooking low and slow is very important for the best results. Once you add the lentils and broth, let it simmer gently. This allows the flavors to meld and the lentils to soften perfectly. Trust me, patience pays off here! Serve your stew in warm bowls for a cozy feel. Pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for creaminess. For a pop of color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This small touch makes the dish look inviting. A sprinkle of black pepper on top can also add a nice finishing touch. For the full recipe, check out the Hearty Vegetable Lentil Stew section! {{image_2}} Different Types of Lentils You can use many lentils for your stew. Green and brown lentils work well. They hold their shape and add a nice texture. Red lentils cook down and become creamy. You can also try black lentils for a unique twist. Each type brings a different flavor and look to your dish. Choosing Seasonal Vegetables Using seasonal vegetables makes your stew fresh and tasty. In spring, add asparagus or peas. In summer, use zucchini or bell peppers. Fall calls for root veggies like squash or sweet potatoes. In winter, consider hearty greens like kale and cabbage. These swaps keep your stew exciting and full of flavor. Adding Proteins like Sausage Want to boost the flavor? Try adding cooked sausage. It brings a savory kick to your stew. You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option or classic pork sausage for richness. Just slice and add it in with the veggies. This addition makes your stew heartier and more filling. Incorporating Different Herbs Herbs can change the taste of your stew. Fresh thyme or rosemary pairs well with lentils. They add a fragrant aroma. You can also use bay leaves for depth. For a fresh finish, stir in parsley or cilantro just before serving. These herbs enhance the overall flavor and make it more vibrant. Instant Pot Version Using an Instant Pot? You’ll save time! Sauté the veggies first, just like in the stovetop method. Then, add all other ingredients, including lentils, and set the pot to high pressure for 15 minutes. Let it release naturally for 10 minutes. You’ll have a delicious stew in no time! Slow Cooker Option For the slow cooker, add all the ingredients in the morning. Set it on low for 6-8 hours. The lentils will soak up all the flavors. You’ll come home to a warm and hearty meal. This method is perfect for busy days, allowing you to enjoy a great dinner without the rush. How long does Easy Lentil Stew last in the fridge? It can last for about 4 to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. What are the best containers for storage? Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers. They seal well and help prevent spills. Label the container with the date. This way, you know how long it's been in the fridge. What are the steps to freeze leftovers? First, let the stew cool down. Next, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top, as the stew will expand. Seal them tightly and label with the date. How do I reheat for the best results? Thaw the stew in the fridge overnight. You can heat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. Add a splash of broth if it seems thick. This keeps the texture smooth. For the full recipe, check out the Hearty Vegetable Lentil Stew. It's a warm hug in a bowl! Can I make this Easy Lentil Stew in advance? Yes, you can make this stew ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day. Just let it cool and store it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to eat. What can I serve with lentil stew? Lentil stew pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for added texture. A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of cheese adds a nice touch too. Can I use canned lentils instead? You can use canned lentils if you are short on time. Rinse them well and add them in the last few minutes of cooking. This way, they stay tender and hold their shape. What's a good substitute for vegetable broth? If you don't have vegetable broth, you can use water with a little salt. You can also use chicken broth if you want a different flavor. Just keep in mind it will change the dish slightly. Is lentil stew healthy? Yes, lentil stew is very healthy. Lentils are high in protein and fiber. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals. This stew is a great choice for a balanced meal. How many calories are in this recipe? This recipe has about 300 calories per serving. It can vary based on your specific ingredients. Using less oil or skipping the bread will lower the calorie count. This blog post provided a clear guide to making a delicious lentil stew. We covered essential ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to enhance flavor. I shared several variations to suit your taste and offer storage advice for leftovers. Lentil stew is a healthy meal that's easy to make and enjoy. Try these steps, tips, and variations to create your perfect dish. You'll love how simple and tasty it can be!

Easy Lentil Stew

Warm up your day with this Hearty Vegetable Lentil Stew! Packed with nutritious lentils, fresh veggies, and delicious spices, this stew is not only comforting but also easy to make. Perfect for any meal, it’s a wholesome recipe that feeds the soul and satisfies hunger. Click through to explore the full recipe and discover how to create this delicious dish that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 bay leaf

4 cups vegetable broth

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

1 cup kale or spinach, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions
 

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

    Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened.

      Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

        Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes (with their juice).

          Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

            Add the chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking, stirring until wilted.

              Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

                Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the stew in warm bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy with crusty bread on the side!