Hearty Comfort in Every Spoonful
As the winter chill sets in, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of hearty lentil stew to warm the soul and nourish the body. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and an array of flavorful spices, this recipe is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and soul-soothing goodness. Let's embark on a culinary journey and savor the comforting embrace of a bowl of soul-warming lentil stew.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
- Fresh lemon juice for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a bit of olive oil until translucent. Add minced garlic and continue sautéing for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots and celery, allowing them to soften slightly.
3. Spice it Up: Sprinkle in ground cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and coriander. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the aromatic spices.
4. Lentils and Tomatoes: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Leafy Goodness: Add the chopped kale or spinach to the stew and let it wilt down. This adds a burst of green goodness and additional nutrients.
7. Season and Serve: Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve piping hot.
8. Enjoy the Cozy Bliss: Grab your favorite blanket, cozy up, and savor the soul-warming delight of this nutritious lentil stew.
Notes:
- Customize the spice level according to your preference by adjusting the amount of smoked paprika or adding a pinch of cayenne.
- This stew can be even more delightful the next day as the flavors meld and deepen.
Nourish your body and spirit with this soul-warming lentil stew, a celebration of nourishing ingredients that bring comfort and joy to every spoonful.
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