Description
This hearty and nutritious Lentil and Kale Stew offers a comforting plant-based meal that’s rich in earthy flavors and perfect for cozy evenings or meal prepping. Made with tender lentils, vibrant kale, and a blend of spices, this stew is both filling and wholesome.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 5 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups chopped kale
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion and carrots to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Add aromatics and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for 30 seconds to toast the spices and enhance their flavors without burning the garlic.
- Combine lentils and broth: Add the rinsed lentils and pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer lentils: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the stew has thickened.
- Incorporate kale: Add the chopped kale to the pot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the kale wilts and becomes tender.
- Season and serve: Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness before serving.
Notes
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors of the stew.
- The stew thickens as it cools, so adjust thickness by adding more broth if reheated.
- Great for meal prepping and freezes well for future meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
