Lentil & Vegetable Stew

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this Lentil & Vegetable Stew is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant medley of tender lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices simmered to perfection in a rich vegetable broth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a nutritious lunch to power your day, this stew checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What makes this Lentil & Vegetable Stew stand out is its perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. Lentils provide a satisfying protein punch while being gentle on the digestive system, and the combination of fresh veggies adds layers of texture and nutrition. The warm spices—cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano—bring a subtle earthiness and depth that make every spoonful comforting and delicious. Not to mention, it’s a budget-friendly dish that stretches a little further on your grocery list.

This stew is also wonderfully versatile. You can easily swap or add vegetables depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Looking for even more vegetable inspiration? You might enjoy trying the Briam Greek Vegetable Bake, which offers a Mediterranean twist on roasted veggies that pairs beautifully with this stew.

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

How To Make Lentil & Vegetable Stew

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes any dust or debris and helps improve the stew’s texture. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the carrots and celery, and dice the zucchini and bell pepper. Having everything prepped before you begin cooking makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn. This step builds the stew’s flavor foundation.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Spices

Toss in the chopped carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper. Stir well to combine. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the spices to bloom and the vegetables to soften slightly.

Step 4: Combine Lentils, Tomatoes, and Broth

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 5: Simmer the Stew

Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the vegetables have melded beautifully with the broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the stew is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, herbaceous finish. This stew is perfect on its own or paired with warm crusty bread for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not rinsing lentils thoroughly can lead to a gritty texture.
• Overcooking vegetables until mushy – keep them tender but with a bit of bite.
• Skipping the sauté step – it’s crucial for developing rich, layered flavors.
• Adding salt too early – it can toughen lentils; season towards the end for best results.
• Using too high heat during simmering – low and slow is key to a well-balanced stew.

Dietary Options

• Gluten-Free: This stew is naturally gluten-free, just ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free.
• Vegan: All ingredients are plant-based, making it suitable for a vegan lifestyle.
• Low-Fat: Use less olive oil or substitute with a light cooking spray to reduce fat content.
• High-Protein: Lentils provide a great source of plant protein; add extra lentils or serve with quinoa for a protein boost.

Seasonal Variations

• Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus for a burst of seasonal sweetness.
• Summer: Incorporate fresh corn kernels and diced tomatoes for a lighter, sweeter stew.
• Fall: Swap zucchini for butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a cozy, hearty twist.
• Winter: Add kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.

Storage & Make-Ahead

This Lentil & Vegetable Stew stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the stew if it has thickened. It also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

For busy weeks, consider making a big batch ahead of time and portioning it out for easy grab-and-go meals. This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep.

FAQ

Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown?

Red lentils cook faster and tend to break down into a mushier texture, resulting in a stew that’s more like a thick soup. If you prefer a chunkier stew, stick with green or brown lentils.

Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sauté the veggies and spices on the stove first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the lentils and vegetables are tender.

How can I make this stew spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red chili flakes along with the other spices to bring a warm heat to the dish. Fresh chopped chili peppers also work well if you prefer a fresher spice.

What can I serve with Lentil & Vegetable Stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with warm bread, rice, or a simple green salad. For a complementary soup option, consider a light and flavorful Carrot Coriander Soup to start your meal.

Conclusion

This Lentil & Vegetable Stew is a nourishing, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a variety of vegetables and protein-rich lentils in one wholesome bowl. Perfect for any season, this stew can be customized to your taste and dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for everyday cooking. Whether you’re new to cooking lentils or looking for a reliable, delicious stew recipe, this one is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the cozy comfort of this vibrant stew any day of the week!

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