Lentil Potato Stew Recipe: A Hearty, Nourishing Comfort Meal
Nothing says comfort quite like a steaming bowl of Lentil Potato Stew Recipe. Thick, hearty, and full of earthy flavors, this stew is the ultimate one-pot meal that warms you from the inside out. Tender potatoes, protein-packed lentils, and aromatic vegetables combine to create a dish that is as wholesome as it is satisfying. Plant-based meals like this have grown increasingly popular, not only for their nutritional benefits but also for their ease of preparation and versatility.
Lentils provide a rich source of protein and fiber, making this stew a filling option for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to enjoy a nourishing dinner without relying on meat. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, Lentil Potato Stew is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekend meals. Its comforting texture and robust flavor make it a recipe you’ll return to time and again, whether served as a casual family dinner or as a warm, hearty dish to impress guests.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a classic ingredient list for Lentil Potato Stew, including approximate calorie counts per ingredient.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 kcal |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 44 kcal |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 13 kcal |
| Carrots (sliced) | 2 medium | 50 kcal |
| Celery (sliced) | 2 stalks | 20 kcal |
| Potatoes (diced) | 3 medium (about 1 lb) | 330 kcal |
| Brown or green lentils (rinsed) | 1 cup | 230 kcal |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 cup | 32 kcal |
| Vegetable broth | 4 cups | 60 kcal |
| Bay leaf | 1 | 0 kcal |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | 8 kcal |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | 6 kcal |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Fresh parsley (optional, chopped) | 2 tablespoons | 2 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
2. Add Potatoes and Spices
Add diced potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables with spices.
3. Add Lentils and Liquid
Mix in the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Stew
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
5. Adjust Consistency and Seasoning
If the stew is too thick, add a little more broth or water. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the stew before serving for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add extra veggies: Spinach, kale, zucchini, or bell peppers blend well for added nutrition.
- Spice it up: Include a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes for a warm, spicy kick.
- Make it creamier: Stir in coconut milk or a splash of plant-based cream toward the end.
- Use different lentils: Red lentils cook faster and create a slightly thicker texture, while brown or green lentils hold their shape better.
- Add grains: Serve over rice, quinoa, or barley for a more filling meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 10–12 grams |
| Fat | 4–5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38–42 grams |
| Fiber | 10–12 grams |
| Iron | ~15% Daily Value |
| Potassium | High |
This stew is rich in plant-based protein and fiber, making it filling and heart-healthy. Potatoes contribute potassium and vitamin C, while lentils provide essential minerals and complex carbohydrates for steady energy.
Serving Suggestions
Lentil Potato Stew can be enjoyed on its own or paired with complementary sides:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: Adds heartiness and makes the meal more filling.
- Side Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette balance the stew’s richness.
- Toppings: A dollop of vegan yogurt, avocado slices, or fresh herbs adds creaminess and brightness.
Lentil Potato Stew: A Hearty, Nourishing Comfort Meal
4
servings10
minutes30
minutes230
kcalIngredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
3 medium potatoes (about 1 lb), diced
1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
1 cup diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Add Potatoes & Spices:
- Stir in diced potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add Lentils & Liquid:
- Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Stew:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 25–30 minutes until lentils and potatoes are tender.
- Adjust & Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Aromatic base matters: Sautéing onions, carrots, and celery before adding liquid builds a rich, flavorful stew.
Potato choice: Yukon Gold or red potatoes give a buttery texture; sweet potatoes add natural sweetness.
FAQs
1. Can Lentil Potato Stew be made vegan?
Yes! This stew is naturally vegan when using vegetable broth. Avoid adding any dairy or animal-based toppings to keep it fully plant-based.
2. Can I use canned lentils instead of dry lentils?
Yes. Canned lentils can be added during the last 10 minutes of cooking since they’re already cooked. Reduce the cooking liquid slightly to avoid a watery stew.
3. Can I freeze Lentil Potato Stew?
Absolutely. Allow the stew to cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
4. How long does it take to cook Lentil Potato Stew?
From start to finish, it takes about 40 minutes, including sautéing vegetables and simmering lentils and potatoes until tender.
5. Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or diced jalapeños to increase heat according to your taste.
Conclusion
Lentil Potato Stew is a wholesome, satisfying dish that combines hearty vegetables, protein-packed lentils, and warming spices into one comforting meal. Easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrients, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekends. With endless customization options, this stew is versatile enough to suit any taste while remaining simple and approachable.
