Welcome to a comforting bowl of Hearty Lentil Stew! This recipe is simple yet satisfying, perfect for cozy nights or when you need a nutritious meal in a hurry. Packed with flavor and nourishing ingredients, it's a one-pot wonder you'll want to make again and again.
Lentils are the star of this stew, providing protein and a hearty texture. Be sure to rinse them well before cooking. Vegetable broth acts as the flavor base, infusing the stew with depth. Onion and garlic add aromatic notes, while carrots and celery give a classic stew taste and crunch. Diced tomatoes bring acidity and a touch of sweetness. The bay leaf, thyme, and cumin create a warm, savory profile. Finally, olive oil helps sauté the vegetables to perfection.
This stew pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice. For a little extra, top it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté these until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent, which should take about 8 minutes.
Next, stir in the rinsed lentils, the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, and the vegetable broth. Toss in the bay leaf, thyme, and cumin. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the stew bubble away gently until the lentils are tender, which takes about 40 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste and don’t forget to remove the bay leaf.