Hearty Brown Lentil & Vegetable Stew
A hearty and wholesome one-pot stew featuring protein-rich brown lentils and an abundance of vegetables, simmered to perfection in a rich broth with a touch of balsamic tang.
For 6 servings
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion is translucent.
Add the minced garlic and tomato paste to the pot. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in color and the garlic to become fragrant. Stir in the dried thyme.
Add the rinsed brown lentils to the pot, stirring to combine them thoroughly with the sautéed vegetables and aromatics.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 35-45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the stew has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in the balsamic vinegar. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
Ladle the hot stew into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra depth of flavor, use a good quality, rich vegetable broth. Homemade broth will yield the best results.
- 2Don't skip rinsing the lentils; it helps remove any debris and can improve their texture, preventing them from becoming mushy.
- 3Taste and adjust seasoning frequently throughout the cooking process. Lentils absorb a lot of salt, so you might need more than you initially think.
- 4This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld and deepen. It's perfect for meal prepping!
Adapt it for your goals.
Smoky Flavor
Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the dried thyme for a delicious smoky depth that complements the earthy lentils.
Greens BoostGreens Boost
Stir in a handful of chopped fresh spinach or kale during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking until the greens are just wilted for added nutrients.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
For a subtle heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and tomato paste.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Lentils are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness, supporting weight management.
Plant-Based Protein Powerhouse
This stew provides a substantial amount of plant-based protein from the brown lentils, making it a highly satisfying and nutritious meal for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to reduce meat consumption.
Rich in Essential Nutrients
Packed with a variety of vegetables, this stew is a good source of vitamins (like Vitamin A from carrots, Vitamin C) and minerals (such as iron, folate, and potassium), contributing to overall health and well-being.
Frequently asked questions
Brown or green lentils work best for this recipe as they hold their shape well during simmering. Red lentils will break down more quickly and create a creamier, more soup-like consistency, which is also delicious but different.
