Spanish-Style Vegan Lentil Stew
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
- 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.
- 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.
- Incorporate Lentils and Tomatoes:
- Add the lentils and diced tomatoes (including the juice from the can) to the pot. Stir to combine.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!