A Hearty Lentil Stew Recipe: Nutritious Comfort in Every Bite
Lentil stew is a nutritious and hearty comfort food that’s perfect for warming you up on a cold day. Packed with protein, fiber, and an array of spices, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. This recipe will guide you through creating a flavoursome lentil stew that will surely become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– Crusty bread, to serve
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
– Rinse the lentils under cold water and set them aside.
– Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
– Open the can of diced tomatoes.
– Have all the spices and vegetable broth measured and prepared.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
– Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
– Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, around 5 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Lentils and Spices:
– Stir in the rinsed lentils and mix well with the vegetables.
– Add the ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
– Cook for a few minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavours.
4. Simmer the Stew:
– Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
– Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid.
– Simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
– Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed.
– Serve the lentil stew hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
– Enjoy with a side of crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the delicious flavours.
Nutritional Benefits:
Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making this stew a great option for vegetarians and vegans. They are also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full and satisfied. The array of spices not only adds depth and flavour to the dish but also provides various health benefits. Cumin and coriander are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while turmeric is a potent antioxidant.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this lentil stew recipe is a wholesome and nutritious dish that is simple to prepare yet full of delicious, comforting flavours. Whether you’re looking for a meatless meal option or just want a cosy and satisfying dinner, this lentil stew will not disappoint. Try it out for yourself and experience the warmth and goodness in every spoonful.