Looking for a hearty, nutritious meal that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds? Dive into the delightful world of our Lentil and Five Vegetable Stew! This vibrant, colorful dish is not only packed with wholesome ingredients but also offers a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at your next dinner party, this stew is a true crowd-pleaser. With just a handful of fresh vegetables and protein-rich lentils, you can create a satisfying meal in under an hour. Ready to uncover the secrets of this delicious stew? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
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 or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add diced carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften slightly.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the vegetable mixture.
- Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the lentils for tenderness. They should be soft but not mushy. If needed, continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris or small stones. This ensures a clean and tasty stew.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip the step of sautéing the onions and garlic; this builds a flavorful base for your stew. Make sure they are translucent and slightly golden for the best taste.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Spinach, kale, or even sweet potatoes can add a unique twist to the stew.
- Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low once the stew begins to boil. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully without overcooking the lentils.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your stew before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar for a bright finish.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the stew sit for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows the flavors to deepen and develop, making each bite even more delicious.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving can elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
