This hearty stew combines savory sausage, nutritious kale, and tender lentils for a comforting meal that’s perfect any time of year. It’s easy to make and packed with flavors that will warm you up from the inside out.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time55 min
Total Time1 hr 10 min
Difficulty
Hard
Kitchen Tricks
Brown the sausage well before adding other ingredients to boost the stew’s flavor.
Rinse the lentils thoroughly to remove any debris and prevent bitterness.
Add the kale toward the end of cooking to keep it tender but still vibrant and fresh.
Ingredients
0/15
Why This Recipe Is So Good
This stew is a hearty and comforting meal that combines savory sausage with nutritious kale and protein-rich lentils. It's packed with flavor and perfect for warming up on chilly days. Plus, it’s a balanced dish that feels both satisfying and healthy.
Step 1
Lightly heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned, about 5 minutes. Next, toss in the kale stems, carrots, and onion, and sauté everything until the veggies soften, which should take another 5 minutes. Pour in the water and lentils, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer gently until the lentils are tender, around 20 minutes.
Step 2
Stir in the tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, garam masala, thyme, dill, tarragon, and salt. Bring the stew back up to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes to let the flavors come together. Finally, add the kale leaves and cook just until they wilt, about 5 minutes, and you’re ready to serve.
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people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Ideas For Family Meals
Serve this stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of plain yogurt can add a nice touch. Pair it with a simple green salad to keep the meal light and fresh.
How To Keep It Fresh
Let the stew cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Yes, you can use any sausage you prefer, such as breakfast sausage or chorizo, but keep in mind the flavor will change slightly.
Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?
No, rinsing the lentils is enough; they cook well without soaking in this recipe.
Can I substitute fresh kale with frozen kale?
Yes, frozen kale works fine—just add it during the last cooking step and cook until heated through.
How spicy is the stew with garam masala?
Garam masala adds warmth and complexity without much heat; you can omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
What can I use instead of white vinegar?
You can substitute with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor.
Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?
Yes, omit the sausage and consider adding mushrooms or smoked paprika for a savory depth.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, it freezes well—cool completely before freezing and reheat gently on the stove.
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