Ingredients
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon thyme
– ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
– 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
Making Slow Cooker Lentil Stew is straightforward if you follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Rinse the lentils under cold water.
2. Combine in Slow Cooker: Add lentils, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in Broth and Tomatoes: Add vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (with juice) to the mix. Stir gently.
5. Optional Olive Oil: If using, drizzle olive oil over the mixture for added richness.
6. Set Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Add Greens (if using): If you’re including spinach or kale, add it about 20-30 minutes before the cooking time ends.
8. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasonings as needed.
9. Serve: Ladle the piping hot stew into bowls.
Following these steps will allow you to create a delicious, hearty meal effortlessly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 250 kcal (approx.)
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: For a heartier meal, include diced chicken, turkey, or even sausage. This transforms the stew into a robust dish.