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Spanish-Style Vegan Lentil Stew

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Spanish-Style Vegan Lentil Stew

This Spanish-style vegan lentil stew is easy to make with very simple ingredients and perfect for vegans on a serious budget. Hearty and comforting, this oil-free recipe is great as a plant-based main dish for chilly evenings or as a side for a summer barbeque or picnic.

Here’s a refined recipe for a delicious and hearty Spanish-Style Vegan Lentil Stew:

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 large potato, peeled and diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base:
    • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add Vegetables and Spices:
    • Stir in the red and green bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
    • Add the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
  3. Incorporate Lentils and Tomatoes:
    • Add the lentils and diced tomatoes (including the juice from the can) to the pot. Stir to combine.
  4. Add Broth and Simmer:
    • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
  5. Add Potatoes:
    • Add the diced potatoes to the pot and continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
  6. Season and Serve:
    • Remove the bay leaf. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. If the stew is too thick, you can add a bit more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
    • Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips

  • Optional Add-Ins:
    • You can add other vegetables such as zucchini or spinach towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition.
    • A splash of red wine or a teaspoon of red wine vinegar can add depth to the flavor.
  • Serve With:
    • This stew pairs well with crusty bread or a side of rice.

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Spanish-Style Vegan Lentil Stew!