Spanish Lentil Stew: Hearty & Flavorful Meal (Print Version)
Discover a rich and comforting Spanish lentil stew. This hearty recipe features tender lentils, vegetables, and traditional spices for a satisfying meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 50 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Spanish
Dietary: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
# Ingredients:
→ The Spanish Soffrito Foundation
01 -
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
02 -
1 large yellow onion, diced
03 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 red bell pepper, diced
05 -
1 large carrot, diced
→ Hearty Lentil Core
06 -
1 1/2 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed
07 -
6 cups vegetable broth
08 -
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
09 -
2 bay leaves
→ Piquant Spanish Seasoning
10 -
1 tbsp smoked paprika (pimentón)
11 -
1 tsp ground cumin
12 -
1 tbsp sherry vinegar
13 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Fresh Finish
14 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 large yellow onion, diced, 1 red bell pepper, diced, and 1 large carrot, diced. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
02 -
Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 1 tbsp smoked paprika (pimentón) and 1 tsp ground cumin, stirring for 30 seconds until aromatic. This forms the flavorful base of your Hearty Spanish Lentil Stew Recipe.
03 -
Add 1 1/2 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed, to the pot. Pour in 6 cups vegetable broth and 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes. Add 2 bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
04 -
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Ensure the lentils are cooked through for a perfect Hearty Spanish Lentil Stew Recipe.
05 -
Remove and discard the bay leaves. Stir in 1 tbsp sherry vinegar. Season the Hearty Spanish Lentil Stew Recipe generously with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed. Allow to simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes to meld flavors.
06 -
Remove the pot from heat and let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for a fresh finish. Enjoy your delicious Hearty Spanish Lentil Stew Recipe!
# Notes:
01 -
For a slightly different texture, you can use French green lentils (Puy lentils) which hold their shape well. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using a good quality chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
02 -
This hearty stew is fantastic on its own, but truly shines when served with crusty bread for dipping, or alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors often deepen overnight! Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it's too thick.
04 -
Don't skip the sherry vinegar! It's a crucial ingredient that brightens the stew and adds a touch of authentic Spanish acidity, balancing the richness of the lentils and tomatoes.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
cutting board
03 -
chef's knife
04 -
measuring cups
05 -
measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 277 kcal
Total Fat: 5 g
Total Carbohydrate: 43 g
Protein: 16 g