Craving a comforting, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s also quick to prepare? Look no further! This Spanish lentil stew is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant vegetables, this easy recipe is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into a culinary masterpiece. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, proving that delicious dishes don't need hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 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 occasionally to prevent burning.
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Bloom the spices: Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of your spices.
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Add the lentils and broth: Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer until lentils are tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the stew becomes too thick, add a little more broth.
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Serve and enjoy: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious and healthy Spanish lentil stew! This hearty meal is perfect served with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for the Best Spanish Lentil Stew:
- Don't skip the sautéing: Sautéing the vegetables before adding the lentils and broth helps to develop deeper flavors in your stew.
- Adjust the spices to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or other spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder stew, omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
- Use high-quality broth: The quality of your broth will significantly impact the overall flavor of the stew. Consider using homemade broth for the best results.
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Cook them until they are tender but still hold their shape.
Variations:
- Add chorizo: For a richer, more savory stew, add 1/2 cup of sliced chorizo sausage during the sautéing stage.
- Include other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Make it a vegetarian chili: Add a tablespoon of chili powder for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15 grams
This Spanish lentil stew is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a delicious and nutritious dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!