Welcome to Comfort Food Heaven!
Hey there, food lover! If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, hearty dish that’s 100% plant-based and totally satisfying, you’ve just hit the jackpot. Today, I’m excited to share my delicious Lentil Stew over Mashed Potatoes recipe with you! This meal is not only warm and comforting but also packed with nutritious goodness. I love making this on chilly evenings or anytime I crave something hearty yet healthy!
Why You’ll Love This Lentil Stew
This recipe is all about simplicity and warmth. Lentils are fantastic little legumes; they’re rich in protein and fiber, making them a perfect addition to our diets. Combined with hearty veggies and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your house, just like it is in mine. Plus, you won’t need to be a master chef to whip it up—it’s straightforward and delightful!
The Nutritional Benefits
Lentils are not just delicious; they come loaded with health benefits! Here are a few reasons why you should include them in your meals:
- High in Protein: Perfect for anyone looking to increase their plant-based protein intake!
- Rich in Fiber: They help keep you full and satisfied, promoting healthy digestion.
- Loaded with Vitamins: Lentils are a good source of iron, folate, and other essential nutrients.
By pairing the lentils with mashed potatoes, you’re also getting your dose of potassium and comfort in every bite. It’s a win-win!
Fun Variations to Consider
One of the best things about cooking is that you can always tweak the recipes to your liking. Here are some fun variations for this lentil stew that you might enjoy:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat!
- Herb it Up: Feel free to throw in some fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for an extra flavor boost.
- Swap the Veggies: Can’t find a specific veggie? Switch up the carrots and celery with anything on hand like zucchini or bell peppers!
- Make it Creamy: If you want a thicker stew, blend part of the lentils and veggies before serving.
Your Easy Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- 4 large potatoes (for mashed potatoes)
- 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (or more, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Lentils: Start by rinsing the lentils under cool water and setting them aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Stew Base: Toss in the diced potato and stir in that rich tomato paste, dried thyme, dried oregano, and soy sauce. Mix it up well!
- Add Lentils and Broth: Now, pour in those beautiful lentils and the vegetable broth. Bring everything to a glorious boil before lowering the heat to simmer. Cover it up and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and potatoes are tender. Don’t forget to give it an occasional stir!
- Add Peas: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Make the Mashed Potatoes: While the stew is getting cozy, peel and chop your large potatoes, boil them in a pot of salted water, and cook until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain those potatoes and return them to the pot. Add non-dairy milk (and vegan butter, if you’re using it), then mash until they’re creamy and smooth. Tweak the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Assemble the Dish: To serve, create a warm bed of mashed potatoes in a bowl and ladle that heartwarming lentil stew right on top!
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle a bit of fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of flavor. Enjoy every spoonful of your cozy, plant-based comfort food!
Practical Tips
- Want to save time? You can make the stew ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat when ready to serve!
- If you find the leftover stew thickens up too much in the fridge, just stir in a splash of vegetable broth or water when reheating.
- For a delightful twist, try serving the lentil stew in a bread bowl—perfect for dipping!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned lentils instead of dried? Yes, you can! If using canned lentils, reduce the cooking time to just heat everything through, and add them in after veggies have softened.
- Is this stew freezer-friendly? Absolutely! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers. It’ll be great for up to three months!
- Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you have on hand, like spinach or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
- How can I make it gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce or choose a gluten-free broth.
- What are some good sides to serve with this dish? A simple green salad or some crusty whole-grain bread would complement the meal perfectly!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to try this recipe as I am to share it with you! There’s nothing better than a bowl of hearty lentil stew over comforting mashed potatoes to warm you up and fill your belly with happiness. If you whip this up, let me know how it turns out! I’d love to see your beautiful creations on Pinterest. Happy cooking!
