There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty Lentil Vegetable Stew, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with protein-rich lentils and a rainbow of colorful veggies, this stew is not only delicious but also super nutritious. With each spoonful, you’re getting a good dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a perfect fit for any healthy diet. I remember the first time I made this stew on a chilly evening; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! It quickly became a favorite, and I’m sure it’ll warm your heart and belly just like it did mine!

Ingredients for Lentil Vegetable Stew

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful stew! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
2 carrots, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 onion, chopped finely
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color you love!)
2 cups vegetable broth, for a flavorful base
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, juices included
1 teaspoon cumin, for warmth
1 teaspoon paprika, adding a hint of smokiness
Salt and pepper to taste, to elevate the flavors

Feel free to get creative and add any other vegetables you have on hand—zucchini or spinach work wonderfully too!

How to Prepare Lentil Vegetable Stew

Making this Lentil Vegetable Stew is as easy as pie, and trust me, the results are worth every minute! Let’s get started:

First, rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove any dirt and ensures they’re clean for cooking.
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re soft and fragrant—this is where the magic begins!
Next, toss in the diced carrots and bell pepper. Cook them together for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender. The colors alone are so inviting!
Now it’s time to stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), cumin, and paprika. Give everything a good mix!
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld together.
Before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste. And voilà! Your hearty lentil vegetable stew is ready to warm your soul!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful and satisfying, with a rich combination of spices and vegetables.
Packed with nutrients, thanks to the protein-rich lentils and fresh veggies.
Vegan-friendly, so it fits perfectly into any plant-based diet.
Great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it all week!
Customizable! Feel free to throw in your favorite seasonal veggies.

Tips for Success with Lentil Vegetable Stew

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Lentil Vegetable Stew turns out absolutely perfect every time!

Don’t skip rinsing: Rinsing the lentils not only cleans them but also helps to remove any bitterness.
Vegetable variations: Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies! Sweet potatoes, kale, or even green beans can add wonderful flavors and textures.
Seasoning: Adjust the spices to your liking! If you love a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Cooking time: If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer a bit longer, but keep an eye on the liquid levels!
Leftover magic: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop, making it a fantastic meal prep option!

Nutritional Information for Lentil Vegetable Stew

This Lentil Vegetable Stew is not only hearty and delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 200
Fat: 2g (Saturated Fat: 0g, Unsaturated Fat: 1g)
Carbohydrates: 36g (Fiber: 12g, Sugar: 4g)
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 300mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy nourishing your body with every spoonful!

FAQ About Lentil Vegetable Stew

Got questions about making the perfect Lentil Vegetable Stew? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries folks have:

Can I use different types of lentils?

Absolutely! While I love brown or green lentils for this stew, you can also try red lentils. Just remember, red lentils cook faster and may result in a slightly thicker texture!

How do I make this stew spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking. Adjust the amount to suit your taste!

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Of course! If you prefer a meatier stew, feel free to add cooked sausage or chicken. Just toss it in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.

How long will leftovers last?

Your Lentil Vegetable Stew will keep well in the fridge for up to five days! Just store it in an airtight container for freshness.

Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Lentil Vegetable Stew properly is key to enjoying those delicious leftovers! Once the stew has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to five days, so you can savor it throughout the week!

When you’re ready to enjoy your stew again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it warms evenly. If you find it’s a bit thick after sitting in the fridge, don’t worry—just add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely to avoid splatters. Enjoy your cozy meal!

Variations of Lentil Vegetable Stew

One of the best things about this Lentil Vegetable Stew is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting. Here are some fun ideas:

Veggie swaps: Swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale for added flavor and nutrition.
Spice it up: Play with the spices! A dash of curry powder or a sprinkle of Italian herbs can give it a whole new twist.
Protein boost: Want to add more protein? Toss in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas for an extra hearty meal.
Herb infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley added just before serving can brighten up the stew beautifully.
Smoky flavor: If you love smokiness, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor!

Feel free to get creative and make this stew your own! Each variation will bring a delightful twist to your table.

Lentil Vegetable Stew: 5 Heartwarming Variations to Try

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty lentil vegetable stew packed with nutrients.

Instructions

Rinse the lentils under cold water.
In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
Add the carrots and bell pepper, cooking until tender.
Stir in the lentils, broth, tomatoes, cumin, and paprika.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add any other vegetables you like.
This stew can be stored in the fridge for up to five days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 200
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 12g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Lentil Vegetable Stew

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