Discover the perfect blend of lentils, hearty veggies, and savory herbs in this Soul-Warming Lentil & Veggie Stew recipe—a comforting bowl for cozy days.
Soul-Warming Lentil & Veggie Stew: A Comforting Bowl of Goodness
As the days grow shorter and the chill of autumn sets in, there's nothing more inviting than the aroma of a heartwarming stew simmering away in the kitchen. My 'Soul-Warming Lentil & Veggie Stew' is the perfect remedy for those cold, blustery days when comfort food feels most essential. Packed with nutrient-dense vegetables and protein-rich lentils, this stew is designed not only to fill you up but also to lift your spirits. It’s not just a dish; it's an embrace in a bowl.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
Build the Flavor: Add the sliced carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Introduce the Lentils: Stir in the rinsed lentils, canned diced tomatoes (including their juice), and vegetable broth. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
Spice it Up: Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir everything together, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked through and tender.
Final Touches: Remove the bay leaf and season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt into the stew. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir to combine all flavors thoroughly.
Ready to Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, garnishing each with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Conclusion:
This Soul-Warming Lentil & Veggie Stew is more than just a meal; it's a ritual of self-care on a cold day. With its hearty texture, rich aroma, and vibrant flavors, this stew not only nourishes the body but also soothes the soul. Enjoy it with a crusty piece of bread or a simple salad for a meal that's wholesome, delicious, and fabulously comforting. Whether you're sharing it with loved ones or savoring a bowl by yourself, this stew promises to warm more than just your stomach.