Are you ready to indulge in a hearty and nutritious dish that will warm your soul? Look no further than this delightful Lentil Stew with Spinach and Potatoes! Packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a cozy family dinner or a meal prep for the week ahead. With just a few simple steps, you can create a comforting bowl of goodness that’s sure to impress your taste buds and nourish your body. Dive into the recipe below and discover how to transform everyday ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Global
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils, diced potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until lentils and potatoes are tender.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add fresh spinach leaves and stir gently to incorporate. Allow spinach to wilt into the stew.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Tips
- Rinse the Lentils: Always rinse your lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris or small stones. This ensures a clean and delicious stew.
- Sautéing Onions: Take your time when sautéing the onions. Cooking them until they are translucent and slightly golden adds a depth of flavor to the stew.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew towards the end of cooking and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. This is your chance to personalize the flavors!
- Fresh Spinach: Add the spinach in the last few minutes of cooking to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. This will also keep it from becoming overly wilted.
- Let It Rest: Allow the stew to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together, creating a richer taste.
- Garnish for Flair: Serve your stew in deep bowls and consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an elegant touch.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices that you love! Carrots or bell peppers can be great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
