Lentil vegetable stew

This lentil vegetable stew is a hearty and nutritious dish, featuring a variety of vegetables and protein-rich lentils simmered in vegetable broth and tomatoes. It's simple to prepare, making it an ideal meal for any day of the week.

08 Jan 2026
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups carrots
2 cups celery
1 cup onion
2 cups zucchini
1 cup cauliflower
2 cups lentils
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup canned tomatoes
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
Lentil vegetable stew

Lentil vegetable stew is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for a satisfying meal. Packed with various vegetables and protein-rich lentils, this stew offers a fulfilling balance of flavors and textures. It's easy to prepare and can be a great addition to your weekly meal rotation. Below you'll find the recipe with some helpful tips to ensure your stew comes out perfect every time.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Vegetables: Dice the carrots, celery, zucchini, and onions. Chop the cauliflower into florets.
2. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onions to the pot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and become translucent.
4. Add Carrots and Celery: Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Include Zucchini and Cauliflower: Add the diced zucchini and cauliflower florets to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 5 minutes to combine flavors.
6. Add Lentils and Broth: Pour in the 2 cups of lentils and 4 cups of vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
7. Incorporate Tomatoes: Add the 1 cup of canned tomatoes to the pot, stirring to mix evenly.
8. Season: Add a dash of salt and a dash of black pepper to the pot, adjusting to taste if necessary.
9. Simmer: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the stew simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
10. Check Consistency: If the stew becomes too thick, add a bit more vegetable broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.
11. Final Taste Check: Do a final taste test and adjust seasoning if needed.
12. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious lentil vegetable stew!

This lentil vegetable stew is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious and easy to make. It's a versatile dish that you can enjoy on its own or pair with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. We hope these tips help you achieve a delightful and comforting stew that will become a favorite in your household.

Lentil vegetable stew FAQ:

How long should I cook lentil vegetable stew?

Simmer the stew for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Adjust the cooking time if needed based on your stove's heat level.

What can I substitute for lentils in this stew?

If you need a substitute, you can use split peas or chickpeas. However, cooking times may vary; split peas usually take less time, while chickpeas may require longer.

How can I store leftover lentil vegetable stew?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

What size pot should I use for this stew?

A large pot or Dutch oven is recommended to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for proper simmering.

Can I add other vegetables to the stew?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time based on their tenderness.

Tips:

- Prepping vegetables: Chop all your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster and blend better with the lentils.

- Cooking sequence: Start by cooking tougher vegetables like carrots and celery first, as they take longer to soften. Add more delicate vegetables like zucchini and cauliflower later.

- Flavor enhancement: Don't hesitate to add herbs like thyme, bay leaves, or rosemary while cooking for added depth of flavor. Fresh herbs can be added towards the end.

- Lentil variety: Green or brown lentils hold their shape well and are ideal for this stew. Red lentils cook faster and may become mushy, altering the texture.

- Simmer patience: Allowing the stew to simmer slowly will help meld the flavors together and soften the lentils properly, giving you a richer taste and a better texture.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 280kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 55g
Fiber 11g
Sugar 9g
Fat 3.50g

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