Welcome to a Hearty & Comforting Dinner Experience!
Hi there! If you’re craving something warm, hearty, and full of flavor, you’ve come to the right place. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite Lentil Stew over Mashed Potatoes recipe. It’s the kind of dish that wraps around you like a warm blanket on a chilly evening. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and perfect for those cozy nights at home.
Nutritional Benefits of Lentil Stew
You might already know that lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition! They’re packed with protein and fiber, making them a fantastic option for both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Just one cup of cooked lentils gives you about 18 grams of protein and a whopping 16 grams of fiber—perfect for keeping you full and satisfied throughout the day. Plus, lentils are rich in essential nutrients like iron and folate, which can support your overall health. So, not only are you enjoying a delicious meal, but you’re nourishing your body too!
Adaptable Variations for Everyone
- Vegetable Swaps: Don’t have peas or carrots? No problem! You can substitute them with other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini—just mix and match based on what’s in your fridge!
- Spices and Flavorings: If you want to spice things up a bit, consider adding some cumin or chili powder for a kick! Play around and see what flavor combinations you enjoy best.
- Vegan Option: This recipe is perfect for vegans—just skip the butter and milk in the mashed potatoes, and use vegetable broth, and you’re all set!
- Extra Creamy: If you prefer a creamier mashed potato, add in a splash of non-dairy milk, like almond or oat milk, along with some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Simple Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter or milk (for the mashed potatoes)
Cooking Instructions
- First things first—let’s make those creamy mashed potatoes! In a large pot, throw in the diced potatoes and cover them with water. Bring everything to a boil and let it cook until the potatoes are nice and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- While the potatoes are bubbling away, grab a large skillet or pot and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and smell divine.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Give it another cook for 1-2 minutes until you can really smell that wonderful aroma. It’s like you’re on a cooking show already!
- Now, rinse the lentils under cold water to make sure they’re ready, then add them to the skillet along with the vegetable broth (or water). Bring this tasty mixture to a boil, then lower the heat. Cover it up and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- If it looks like your lentil stew is getting too thick, just add a bit more broth or water—no stress! Stir in the green peas and season it all with salt and pepper to match your taste. Turn off the heat and let it sit for a moment.
- Once your potatoes are fork-tender, drain them and put them back in the pot. Add in the butter or milk (if you’re using it) and mash them up until they’re smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to create that perfect taste sensation.
- Now comes the fun part! To serve, spoon those creamy mashed potatoes onto a plate or bowl, making a little well right in the center. Ladle your hearty lentil stew over the mashed potatoes and watch how it all comes together like a beautiful hug on a plate.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you like, and serve it up hot. Get ready to dig in and enjoy every delicious bite!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you find your stew too thick, don’t hesitate to add more broth or water, it should have a nice, stew-like consistency!
- To give your mashed potatoes a twist, try adding some roasted garlic or fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge—this dish makes great meal prep for your week!
- If you want to freeze the stew, do so in individual portions. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready for another warm meal!
- Pair this dish with crusty bread or a simple salad for a well-rounded dinner experience.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- A large pot for boiling the potatoes
- A skillet or pot for the stew
- A wooden spoon for stirring
- A colander to drain the potatoes
- A potato masher or ricer for those creamy mashed potatoes
- A knife and cutting board for all the chopping
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned lentils instead? Absolutely! Just rinse and drain them, and add them towards the end of cooking to heat through.
- Is there a substitute for olive oil? Sure! You can use any cooking oil like vegetable oil or even coconut oil for a different flavor.
- Can I add meat to this recipe? Of course! If you want to add diced chicken or any other meat, cook it first with the vegetables.
- How long will leftovers last? In the fridge, your leftovers should be good for about 3-5 days.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Just sauté the veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Let’s Connect!
Did you try making this Lentil Stew over Mashed Potatoes? I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you try any fun variations? Don’t forget to share your experience and follow me on Pinterest for more comforting recipes that warm your heart and feed your family!
