Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and satisfying? Look no further! This hearty lentil and bean stew is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a wholesome lunch. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes. This delicious dish is a fantastic example of healthy meals done right.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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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 minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the lentils and broth: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and enjoy: Once the lentils are cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This hearty stew is delicious on its own, or served with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for the Best Lentil and Bean Stew:
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Start checking for tenderness around the 30-minute mark.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers to your stew.
- Spice it up: If you like a spicier stew, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is already vegetarian and easily adaptable to vegan diets. Just ensure your broth is vegetable-based and avoid any non-vegan additions.
- Meat Lover's Stew: Add 1 pound of browned ground beef, Italian sausage, or diced ham for a heartier, meat-filled stew.
- Curried Lentil and Bean Stew: Add 1-2 tablespoons of curry powder along with the other spices for a flavorful twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 15-20g
This lentil and bean stew is a perfect example of a quick and easy recipe that’s also incredibly healthy and delicious. It's a great way to incorporate more lentils and beans into your diet, offering a fantastic source of protein and fiber for a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy!