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Hearty Vegan Lentil and Vegetable Stew
This hearty vegan lentil and vegetable stew is the perfect dish for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and filling. Packed with nutrients, it’s a delightful blend of lentils and seasonal vegetables that will leave you feeling satisfied. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to enjoy a wholesome meal, this stew is sure to impress your taste buds.
For a spiced variation, try chickpea and spinach curry.
With simple prep and cooking methods, you can whip up this flavorful stew in no time. It’s an ideal recipe for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices as you see fit.
This stew showcases the natural flavors of each ingredient, creating a comforting and nourishing dish that’s both filling and delicious.
Pair with a vegan buddha bowl for a colorful meal.
The Best Lentil and Vegetable Stew for Vegan & Vegetarian Prep
Hearty Vegan Lentil and Vegetable Stew
Course: Dinner Prep, Vegan u0026amp; Vegetarian PrepCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes35
minutes220
kcalThis lentil and vegetable stew is rich and savory, featuring tender lentils, a medley of vibrant vegetables, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. It’s thick and hearty, making it a perfect one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Ingredients
1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the garlic, thyme, and cumin, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the diced zucchini, bell pepper, lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy hot!
Key Prep Tips
- Rinse Lentils: Rinse lentils under cold water to remove any debris and improve their flavor.
- Layer the Flavors: Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots before adding the broth to deepen the stew’s flavor.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the stew to simmer gently to let the flavors meld and the vegetables soften without breaking apart.
- Adjust Consistency: If the stew becomes too thick, add vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired texture.
Suggested Variations
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, cayenne, or curry powder for a spicier, smoky flavor.
- Protein Boost: Stir in chickpeas or tofu cubes for added protein.
- Seasonal Veggies: Swap or add veggies like zucchini, butternut squash, or sweet potatoes based on what’s in season.
- Tomato Base: Add canned diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a richer, tangier broth.
Suggested Variations
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, cayenne, or curry powder for a spicier, smoky flavor.
- Protein Boost: Stir in chickpeas or tofu cubes for added protein.
- Seasonal Veggies: Swap or add veggies like zucchini, butternut squash, or sweet potatoes based on what’s in season.
- Tomato Base: Add canned diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a richer, tangier broth.