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Delicious Vegan Lentil Stew – A Nutrient Rich Dish

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Indulge in a heartwarming delight with our Vegan Lentil Stew, a savory symphony of wholesome ingredients and aromatic spices. Each spoonful is a journey through rich flavors and nourishing goodness, crafted with tender lentils, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of herbs and spices. Perfectly balanced and utterly satisfying, this stew promises a comforting embrace on chilly evenings, making it a cherished favorite for vegans and non-vegans alike. Dive into a bowlful of pure comfort today!

When the weather is cold and damp, you want a meal that will warm you up from the inside. Something that’s both filling and comforting without requiring much effort in the kitchen. And if it could be healthy as well, that’s a bonus!

Vegan Lentil Stew

Lentil stew is healthy and hearty, a filling dish low on calories without compromising taste.

With a thinner texture than soup, this stew is packed with veggies and seasonings that are entirely customizable. It’s also vegetarian, vegan, and naturally gluten-free (Also check out Easy To Make Vegetarian Stew Recipes).

Perfect for batch cooking, healthy vegan lentil stew will become your go-to cold-weather meal. It’s loaded with protein and rich in fiber to keep you feeling full when it gets chilly.

Ready to make vegan lentil stew? Discover the recipe (and why you’ll fall in love with it) with our guide.

What Is Vegan Lentil Stew?

Vegan Lentil Stew is a comforting, nutrient-rich dish from simmering lentils, vegetables, and herbs in a flavorful broth. 

This plant-based delicacy boasts high protein and fiber content, thanks to the lentils, and is further enriched with vitamins and minerals from vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and leafy greens. 

Often seasoned with herbs like thyme and rosemary, it offers a satisfying depth of flavor. Ideal for cold weather or any time you crave a wholesome meal, it’s a versatile favorite that caters to both health and palate.

Vegan Lentil Stew

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

  • Keto Replace potatoes with low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini. Opt for coconut oil for cooking and add a splash of coconut cream for richness.
  • Paleo Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes and substitute bone broth for vegetable broth.
  • Gluten-Free The basic recipe is already gluten-free. Just ensure that the vegetable broth you use is certified gluten-free.
  • Whole30 Skip the potatoes and use turnips or sweet potatoes. Make sure the vegetable broth is compliant, or make your own.
  • Vegetarian The recipe is already vegetarian. For extra richness, consider adding a Parmesan rind during simmering (remove before serving).
  • Vegan For extra protein, throw in some cubed tofu or tempeh. Ensure that the broth and other ingredients are 100% plant-based.
Vegan Lentil Stew

Recipe Directions

  • Prep Veggies: Chop celery, carrots, garlic, and onion.
  • Sauté: In a large pot, sauté these veggies in olive oil for 4-5 minutes.
  • Add Ingredients: Add diced potatoes, spices, and herbs. Stir well.
  • Rinse Lentils: Briefly rinse lentils under cold water.
  • Simmer: Add lentils, vegetable broth, lemon juice, and bay leaves. Simmer for 30-45 minutes.
  • Add Spinach: Stir in spinach until wilted.
  • Taste Test: Adjust seasoning, perhaps adding more lemon juice.
  • Serve: Enjoy as is or with rice or bread.
Vegan Lentil Stew

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

  • Protein Boost: Add cubed tofu or tempeh for extra protein.
  • Spicy Twist: Incorporate a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.

Add-Ons

  • Grains: Quinoa or brown rice can add more texture and nutrients.
  • Legumes: Chickpeas or black beans can make the stew even heartier.
  • Veggies: Consider mushrooms for an umami kick or sweet potatoes for a different texture.

Toppings

  • Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds color and freshness.
  • Nuts and Seeds: A handful of pumpkin seeds or crushed almonds can add a satisfying crunch.
  • Condiments: A dollop of vegan sour cream or a drizzle of tahini can elevate the flavors.
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Can I Make Vegan Lentil Stew In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot? 

Slow Cooker

  • Add all ingredients except spinach into the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. 
  • Stir in the spinach about 30 minutes before serving to allow it time to wilt.

Instant Pot

  • Use the ‘Sauté’ function for the initial sautéing of the vegetables. Add the remaining ingredients except the spinach. Seal the lid and cook on the ‘Manual’ setting at high pressure for 15 minutes. 
  • Quick-release the pressure, open the cover, and stir in the spinach until wilted.
Vegan Lentil Stew

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own? 

Store-Bought Broth

  • This is the more convenient choice, perfect for when you’re short on time. Opt for a low-sodium, organic variety to have more control over the salt and flavor. 
  • Make sure to read the label to confirm it’s vegan.

Homemade Broth

  • Making your broth allows you to customize the flavor and salt content. It’s a great way to use vegetable scraps like onion peels, carrot tops, and celery leaves, making it a more sustainable choice.
Vegan Lentil Stew

How To Serve ? 

  • Temperature: Ensure the stew is piping hot but not boiling, as extreme heat can affect its texture and flavor.
  • Texture: The stew should be neither too thick nor too watery. A splash of warm vegetable broth can bring it back to the perfect consistency if it has thickened upon standing.
  • Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can elevate its visual appeal and add new flavor.
  • Accompaniments: Consider serving the stew with crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • Bowls: Opt for wide, shallow bowls to showcase the stew’s hearty ingredients.
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Perfect Side Dishes

The easiest way to serve lentil stew is in a big bowl! Thanks to the potatoes and lentils, this is a hearty meal.

  • A side of rice is great for absorbing all the flavors of the broth. We recommend a bowl of simple white rice, but feel free to substitute your favorite grains.
  • Or you can mop up all the leftover broth with a chunk of crusty bread. An easy side to prepare, this is perfect for a particularly cold and wet winter day when you want something super comforting.
  • Alternatively, you can lighten the meal up with a fresh side salad. Keep the flavors simple and finish with an essential lemon juice and olive oil dressing. This combination is perfect for a spring day.
  • If you’re a meat eater, you can serve lentil stew as a side for a meaty main. It would pair particularly well with sausages or grilled chicken! You can also try frying bacon alongside your vegetables.
Vegan Lentil Stew

Storage And Make Ahead

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover vegan lentil stew in airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
  • Labeling: Clearly label the containers with the date of preparation to ensure freshness.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, portion the stew into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months.
  • Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen stew in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Reheating: Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Vegan Lentil Stew

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

  • Lentil Tacos: Use the stew as a hearty taco filling, adding avocado, salsa, and vegan cheese for a unique twist.
  • Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with the stew. Bake until the peppers are tender.
  • Shepherd’s Pie: Use the stew as a base layer and top it with mashed potatoes or cauliflower. Bake until golden.
  • Pasta Sauce: Thin the stew and serve it over your favorite pasta or gluten-free alternative.
  • Rice Casserole: Mix the stew with cooked rice, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until crispy.
  • Fritters: Blend the stew, mix with breadcrumbs, form into patties, and pan-fry.
  • Soup: Add more vegetable broth to transform it into a nourishing soup. Add extra spices or herbs for more flavor.

Tips

  • Pre-soak Lentils: Soaking lentils for a few hours before cooking reduces cooking time and enhances digestibility.
  • Use Aromatics: Sauté onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and paprika for a flavorful base.
  • Add Variety: Incorporate a variety of vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for texture and nutrition.
  • Simmer Slowly: Allow the stew to simmer on low heat to develop deep flavors and tenderize the ingredients.
  • Finish with Freshness: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving for a burst of brightness.
Delicious Vegan Lentil Stew - A Nutrient Rich Dish

Delicious Vegan Lentil Stew – A Nutrient Rich Dish

5 from 1 vote
Course: Stew Recipes
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

45

minutes
Calories

270

kcal

Savor the richness of Vegan Lentil Stew, a one-pot wonder full of vegetables and spices. It’s hearty, satisfying, and teeming with flavors that meld together beautifully.

Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons 2 Olive Oil

  • 1 1 Onion

  • 4 4 Garlic Cloves

  • 2 Large 2 Carrots

  • 1 1 Celery Stalk

  • 3 Cups 3 Russet Potatoes (Diced)

  • 1 Cup 1 Dry Brown Lentils

  • 2 Teaspoons 2 Smoked Paprika

  • 2 Tablespoons 2 Fresh Rosemary

  • 2 Tablespoons 2 Fresh Thyme

  • 2 2 Bay Leaves

  • 4 Cups 4 Vegetable Broth

  • 1 Tablespoon 1 Fresh Lemon Juice

  • 2 Cups 2 Spinach

  • Salt And Pepper (To Taste) ,  (Around ½ Teaspoon each)

Step-By-Step Directions

  • Start by prepping your veg. When cooking, chop the celery and carrots into thick chunks so they don’t fall apart.
    Finely chop the garlic and onion. If you’re using dried lentils, pick over them to remove any shriveled lentils or bits of debris.
  • Using a large pot, saute the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots in olive oil over medium heat. Cook for around 4 to 5 minutes or until just softened. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking.
  • Dice the potatoes into small chunks. You can peel them or leave the skin on — your choice! Chop the fresh rosemary and thyme (skip this step if you’re using dried).
    Add the potatoes, smoked paprika, rosemary, and thyme to the pan—season with salt and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables in the spices.
  • Rinse the lentils under cold water for roughly 30 seconds using a strainer. You want to wash away any impurities that might affect your final dish.
    Add the lentils to the pot alongside the vegetable broth, one tablespoon of lemon juice, and the bay leaves. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a simmer.
  • When the pot is simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover. Leave it to simmer over low heat for 30 to 45 minutes or until the lentils are soft.
  • Rinse the spinach well to remove any dirt and impurities. When you’re happy with the consistency of the lentils, remove the lid and stir through the spinach.
    Keep the pot over low heat until the spinach has wilted, which should take around 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning. If you think the stew is missing some pop, add a splash of lemon juice.
  • Serve and enjoy! You can eat this lentil stew or enjoy it with rice or crusty bread.
  • Equipment List
  • Large Pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Strainer
  • Chopping Board and Sharp Knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Ladle
  • Zester or Grater
  • Storage Containers
  • Optional Slow Cooker or Instant Pot

Notes

  • Preparation: You can chop the veggies a day ahead to save time.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the paprika to suit your taste buds.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Alternative Cooking Methods: Slow cooker and Instant Pot versions work well; adjust cooking times accordingly.
  • Optional Toppings: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs, a dollop of vegan sour cream, or nutritional yeast for added flavor.

Nutrition Table 

Nutrition Table 

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