Hearty Lentil Stew
A warm and comforting slow-cooked stew with brown lentils, carrots, celery, and onions. Seasoned with bay leaf and thyme, it's a deeply satisfying one-pot meal that's both healthy and flavorful.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 45 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sauté the vegetables
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- c.Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Combine ingredients
- b.Stir in the rinsed brown lentils, coating them with the vegetables.
- c.Pour in the no-salt-added vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with their juices.
- d.Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and the minimal amount of salt.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer the stew
- b.Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- c.Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
- d.Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish and serve
- b.Remove the pot from the heat and discard the bay leaf.
- c.Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.
- d.Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, keeping the sodium low.
- e.Ladle into bowls and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Rinse your lentils thoroughly to remove any debris or dust.
- 2Don't overcook the lentils, or they will become mushy and lose their texture.
- 3For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the lentils against the side of the pot with a spoon.
- 4This stew freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- 5Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1 cup of cooked quinoa or chopped cooked chicken breast during the last 5 minutes of simmering for an extra protein boost.
quickQuick
Use canned, pre-cooked lentils (rinsed well) and reduce the simmering time to 15-20 minutes, just enough to meld the flavors.
kid friendlyKid friendly
For a smoother texture that kids might prefer, use an immersion blender to partially blend the stew before serving.
healthyHealthy
Add a large handful of chopped kale or spinach in the last 5 minutes of cooking for added greens and nutrients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Fiber
Lentils are rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Heart-Healthy
This low-sodium recipe, combined with the fiber and potassium from lentils and vegetables, helps support cardiovascular health by managing blood pressure.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and building, making this stew a satisfying meal for vegetarians and vegans.
Packed with Nutrients
This stew is loaded with essential nutrients like folate, iron, and manganese from the lentils and vitamins from the carrots, celery, and tomatoes.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this stew is very healthy. It's packed with plant-based protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Being low in sodium makes it particularly good for heart health.