Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew

In the realm of food, the term "comfort food" evokes thoughts of warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction. It’s a category that brings to mind dishes that nourish not just the body but also the soul. One such dish that embodies this sentiment is the comforting lentil and sweet potato stew. This delightful recipe offers an inviting blend of flavors and textures that can uplift even the most challenging days. As the leaves turn crisp in the fall and winter months approach, a bowl of this hearty stew serves as the perfect antidote to chilly weather and a busy lifestyle.

Experience the warmth and nourishment of this Comforting Lentil & Sweet Potato Stew, the perfect dish for chilly days. Packed with protein-rich lentils and naturally sweet potatoes, this recipe not only satisfies your hunger but also supports a healthy lifestyle. With a blend of aromatic spices and fresh vegetables, each spoonful is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Ideal for meal prep or cozy family dinners, this hearty stew is a delicious way to nourish your body and soul.

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Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed

1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, sliced

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

4 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon dried thyme

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the garlic, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Root Vegetables: Incorporate the sliced carrots and diced sweet potato into the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes begin to soften.

Combine Lentils and Spices: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Season to Taste: Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and season the stew with salt and pepper according to your preference. If the stew is too thick, feel free to add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve and Garnish: Ladle the stew into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings