This Lentil and Vegetable Stew is a warm, hearty dish made with lentils, carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes. It’s packed with healthy ingredients and has a comforting, wholesome taste.
I like to think of it as a cozy hug in a bowl. Sometimes, I add a little hot sauce for a fun twist—keeps things interesting!
For extra convenience, I make a big batch and reheat leftovers—perfect for busy days or when I want a quick, nutritious meal.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Lentils:
I often use dried brown or green lentils for richer flavor. Rinse them well before cooking. If you’re short on time, canned lentils work great—just drain and rinse to reduce salt.
Vegetables:
Carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers add sweetness and texture. Fresh or frozen veggies are fine. For a quick version, frozen mixed vegetables are a handy shortcut without sacrificing taste.
Onion & Garlic:
These are the building blocks for flavor. Use fresh for best taste. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder and onion powder are good substitutes—just start with less and adjust to taste.
Broth & Spices:
Vegetable broth adds depth. I prefer low-sodium so I can control the salt. Add cumin or paprika for warmth. If you’re out of spices, a pinch of curry powder can give a nice twist.
How do I cook lentils perfectly without mushiness?
Rinse lentils to remove debris. Use 3 cups of water or broth per 1 cup lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered. Check after 20-30 minutes—lentils should be tender but not falling apart.
- Simmer gently to prevent them from turning to mush.
- Don’t overcook—test a lentil to see if it’s tender yet firm enough.
- If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth.
How to Make Lentil and Vegetable Stew?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Legumes
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
liquids and spices
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 40 minutes. Total time: 50 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the vegetables
Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté aromatics
Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a little oil, then cook onion and garlic until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
3. Add vegetables and spices
Add carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Stir in cumin and thyme. Cook for another 5 minutes until vegetables soften.
4. Pour in lentils and broth
Add rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and cover.
5. Simmer the stew
Let it simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender. Stir occasionally. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve hot
Ladle the stew into bowls. Enjoy your hearty lentil and vegetable stew!
