why make this recipe
Easy Tomato Lentil Stew is the perfect dish for any time you want something warm, hearty, and full of flavor. It is not only cozy but also packed with nutrients from lentils and vegetables. This stew is perfect for chilly days and can serve as a nutritious meal for families or gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen.
how to make Easy Tomato Lentil Stew
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Brown lentils (soak for 20 minutes to reduce cooking time)
- 28 oz Canned crushed tomatoes (use quality tomatoes for best flavor)
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 4 cups Vegetable broth (opt for low-sodium)
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 leaf Bay leaf
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 cup Carrots (diced)
- 2 cups Spinach or kale
- 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice (squeeze in just before serving)
Directions:
- Start by soaking the brown lentils in water for about 20 minutes. This helps reduce the cooking time.
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the soaked lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Add the diced carrots and cook for another 10 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach or kale and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
- Just before serving, add the fresh lemon juice for a bright flavor.
how to serve Easy Tomato Lentil Stew
Serve your Easy Tomato Lentil Stew hot in bowls. You can top it with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or rice, making it a complete meal. Enjoy it as a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner!
how to store Easy Tomato Lentil Stew
To store your Easy Tomato Lentil Stew, let it cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Easy Tomato Lentil Stew
- If you want a thicker stew, you can blend a portion of it once it’s cooked, then mix it back in.
- Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have to make it even heartier.
- Adjust the spices to your preference; if you like it spicy, add a pinch of chili flakes!
variation
You can easily turn this stew into a protein-packed dish by adding cooked sausage or chicken. For a vegan option, add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
FAQs
Can I use different types of lentils?
Yes, you can use other lentils like green or red lentils, but remember that they may require different cooking times.Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this stew a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! This stew often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly in the fridge or freezer.
Easy Tomato Lentil Stew
Ingredients
Method
- Start by soaking the brown lentils in water for about 20 minutes.
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the soaked lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Add the diced carrots and cook for another 10 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach or kale and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
- Just before serving, add the fresh lemon juice for a bright flavor.