Hearty Lentil Stew
Ingredients
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 2 large carrots
- 2 celery ribs
- 4 large garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
optional
- 1 1/2 cups brown or green lentils
- 28-ounce can crushed fire roasted tomatoes*
or highest quality canned tomatoes
- 1 quart vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 cups baby spinach
or chopped standard spinach, kale or chard
- For the garnish: Parmesan cheese
recommended
Directions
- 1
Finely dice the onion. Peel and finely chop the carrots. Chop the celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic.
- 2
In a large pot, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery and garlic and cook 3 to 4 minutes until just translucent. Add the smoked paprika, cumin, fennel seeds, and lentils and stir 1 minute. Add the canned tomatoes and their juices, vegetable broth, and kosher salt.
- 3
Bring to a simmer. Simmer covered, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes. Remove lid and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the lentils are tender. Stir in the spinach in the last minute or so and cook until it wilts (if using kale or chard, add it in the last 5 minutes).
- 4
Remove from the heat. Taste and season with additional salt and fresh ground pepper as necessary. For best flavor, garnish with Parmesan cheese. Stores refrigerated for up to 4 days and frozen for 3 to 4 months.
Hearty Lentil Stew
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 8 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a deeply satisfying, plant-based meal that nourishes both body and soul? This Hearty Lentil Stew is your answer, delivering robust flavors and comforting warmth in every spoonful.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this lentil stew truly special is its foundation of aromatic vegetables—onion, carrots, and celery—combined with a generous hand of smoked paprika and fire-roasted tomatoes. These ingredients create layers of savory depth, elevating humble lentils into an extraordinary dish. The optional addition of fennel seeds introduces a subtle, unexpected sweetness that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
What to Expect
Prepare for a bowl of pure comfort. You'll experience a rich, savory broth infused with the sweetness of carrots and the smoky tang of tomatoes. The lentils cook down to a tender, creamy consistency, creating a naturally thick and incredibly filling stew. With each bite, you'll discover a harmonious blend of earthy lentils and bright spinach, creating a balanced and deeply satisfying experience perfect for any season. This stew is naturally hearty and packed with plant-based protein, leaving you feeling content and nourished.
Customization & Variations
This versatile lentil stew welcomes your personal touch. While brown or green lentils are recommended, red lentils could be used for a faster-cooking, creamier texture (though they may break down more). Feel free to swap baby spinach for chopped kale or Swiss chard for a slightly different green element. If fire-roasted tomatoes aren't available, choose the highest quality crushed tomatoes you can find to ensure a vibrant flavor. For a richer garnish, you can also add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a swirl of good quality olive oil instead of Parmesan.
Serving & Context
Serve this Hearty Lentil Stew as a wholesome main course, perhaps alongside a crusty piece of bread for soaking up every last bit. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese is highly recommended for an extra layer of savory goodness, making it ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a simple, nourishing lunch.