Hearty Spanish Lentil Stew (Print Version)
Savor a comforting Spanish Lentil Stew, packed with rich flavors, vegetables, and protein. A wholesome, easy-to-make meal perfect for any day.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 45 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Spanish
Dietary: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
# Ingredients:
→ The Stew's Hearty Core
01 -
1 1/2 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed
02 -
6 cups vegetable broth
03 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
→ Spanish Aromatics & Garden Freshness
04 -
2 tbsp olive oil
05 -
1 large yellow onion, diced
06 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
08 -
2 stalks celery, diced
09 -
1 red bell pepper, cored and diced
→ Pantry Spice Rack
10 -
1 tbsp smoked paprika (pimentón dulce)
11 -
1 tsp ground cumin
12 -
2 bay leaves
13 -
1/2 tsp dried oregano
14 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Bright Finishing Touches
15 -
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
16 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 large yellow onion, 2 medium carrots, 2 stalks celery, and 1 red bell pepper; cook for 5-7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
02 -
Stir in 3 cloves garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano; cook for another minute, stirring constantly to toast the spices.
03 -
Pour in 6 cups vegetable broth and 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained). Add 1 1/2 cups rinsed brown or green lentils and 2 bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
04 -
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This is where your Hearty Spanish Lentil Stew truly develops its depth.
05 -
Remove and discard the 2 bay leaves. Stir in 1 tbsp red wine vinegar. Season your Hearty Spanish Lentil Stew generously with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for optimal flavor.
06 -
Let the Hearty Spanish Lentil Stew rest off the heat for 5-10 minutes before serving; this allows flavors to meld. Ladle into bowls and garnish each serving with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped.
# Notes:
01 -
For best results, use brown or green lentils as they hold their shape well. Red lentils tend to break down too much.
02 -
This stew keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
03 -
Serve your Hearty Spanish Lentil Stew with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or a simple green salad.
04 -
Feel free to add a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra greens.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 302 kcal
Total Fat: 5 g
Total Carbohydrate: 47 g
Protein: 18 g