A hearty lentil stew is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that's completely plant-based. Packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a simple recipe that’s both nutritious and comforting.
Prep Time30 min
Cook Time1 hr 10 min
Total Time1 hr 40 min
Difficulty
Hard
Cooking Pointers
Rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
Simmer the stew gently to allow flavors to deepen without overcooking the lentils.
Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
0/18
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This stew is packed with protein and fiber, making it both nutritious and satisfying. It uses simple ingredients that come together to create a rich, comforting meal perfect for any season. Plus, it’s entirely plant-based, making it great for those looking to eat more sustainably.
Step 1
Bring the water and lentils to a boil in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, cover the pot, turn the heat down to low, and let the lentils simmer until they’re tender—this should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Next, crank the heat back up to high and pour in the wine. Let it bubble away for about a minute to cook off the alcohol. Then, lower the heat to medium-low again, cover the pot, and let it simmer for another 3 minutes.
Step 2
Now it’s time to add the rest of the ingredients: carrots, celery, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, cabbage, tomato paste, brown sugar, curry powder, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cumin. Give everything a good stir, then let it cook gently, stirring regularly, until the vegetables are soft and all the flavors have melded together nicely. This will take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, so be patient and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
249
people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Tips
Enjoy the stew with a side of warm whole-grain bread or steamed rice to make it more filling. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables can add extra texture and color to your meal. Garnishing with a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors beautifully.
Storing Food Safely
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the stew. This dish also freezes well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned lentils instead of dry lentils?
Yes, but reduce the initial cooking time since canned lentils are already cooked. Add them when you add the other vegetables and simmer until heated through.
What can I substitute for white wine in this recipe?
You can use extra vegetable broth or apple cider vinegar as a non-alcoholic alternative.
How spicy is this stew?
It has a mild warmth from the curry powder and black pepper, but it’s not very spicy. Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
Absolutely! Root vegetables or greens like spinach work well; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Should I rinse the lentils before cooking?
Yes, rinsing removes dust and debris and helps improve the stew’s texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl that's both nutritious and delicious. This simple blend of creamy peanut butter, ripe bananas, and hear...