Why lentil stew is so popular
This Lentil Stew is very affordable and uses basic pantry staples that most people already have at home. The combination of carrots, celery and onions creates a deep flavour base for the legumes. It is naturally vegan and packed with plant based protein and fibre to keep you full. You only need one large pot to make it, which means there is very little cleaning up to do afterwards.
Step by step: lentil stew
Sauté the base: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots and celery. Cook these vegetables for about five minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon to prevent any pieces from sticking to the bottom.
Simmer the lentils: Stir in the garlic and cook for one minute before adding the rinsed lentils. Pour in the chopped tomatoes and the vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for thirty minutes until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
Season and add greens: Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the fresh spinach leaves. They will wilt quickly in the hot liquid. Add the salt, black pepper and lemon juice to brighten the flavours. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed throughout the pot.
Finish and serve: Taste the stew and add more seasoning if you prefer a stronger taste. The consistency should be thick and hearty at this stage. Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread or on its own. This meal keeps well in the fridge and the flavours develop even more over time.
Extra tips for lentil stew
For a thicker Lentil Stew, you can mash a small portion of the lentils against the side of the pot with a spoon. This releases natural starches and creates a creamier texture without needing any dairy products. Always rinse your dried lentils thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove any dust or debris from the bag. If the liquid evaporates too quickly during simmering, add a little more stock or water to keep the lentils covered so they cook evenly.
You can experiment with different vegetables like sweet potato or kale depending on what you have available in your kitchen. Adding a teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the earthy flavour of the dish. If you are reheating the stew the next day, you might need to add a splash of water as the lentils continue to absorb liquid while they sit. Using a good quality vegetable stock will provide a much better depth of flavour to the final result.
You might also enjoy
chocolate mousse,
tuna mousse with avocado or
roast beef with red wine sauce.
