Is there anything more comforting than a hearty, healthy meal simmering on the stove on a chilly autumn evening? This Autumn Simmer Pot is just that – a delicious and easy-to-make recipe packed with seasonal vegetables and warming spices. Perfect for a quick dinner, a healthy lunch prep, or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. It's one of those easy recipes that’s both satisfying and nutritious, making it a go-to for busy weeknights and relaxed weekends alike. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 butternut squash (about 1.5 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 sweet potato (about 1 lb), peeled and cubed
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your delicious dish.
Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Add the butternut squash, sweet potato, lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the lentils are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This Autumn Simmer Pot is delicious on its own or served with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Autumn Simmer Pot:
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought.
- Add protein: Include cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas for a heartier meal. This is a great way to boost the protein content and make it even more satisfying.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of coconut milk or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy texture.
- Prep ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
Variations:
- Pumpkin Simmer Pot: Substitute pumpkin puree for the butternut squash and sweet potato.
- Vegetarian Chili: Add kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans for a heartier chili-like dish.
- Autumn Harvest Bowl: Serve the simmer pot over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a complete and nutritious meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 15-20g Fiber: Approximately 15-20g
This Autumn Simmer Pot is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are easy to prepare. The combination of vegetables, lentils, and warming spices creates a truly satisfying and flavorful dish perfect for any autumn gathering or a quiet night in. Enjoy the deliciousness and the warmth this recipe brings!