lentil stew crockpot recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best lentil stew crockpot recipe

I’ve always been a fan of hearty, comforting meals that warm the soul. One of my favorite recipes is lentil stew, and I’m excited to share my crockpot version with you. This dish has a rich history, originating in the Mediterranean where lentils were a staple ingredient.

The slow-cooked stew is typically made with red or green lentils, onions, garlic, and aromatic spices like cumin and coriander. The result is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. My family loves this recipe because it’s easy to make and packed with protein and fiber.

We often serve it with a side of crusty bread or over rice. I’ve also found that it’s a great way to get my kids to eat more vegetables – they love helping me chop the onions and carrots. As an added bonus, lentils are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize to your taste. You can add your favorite spices or herbs to give it an extra boost of flavor. I like to use fresh parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness.

You can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra creaminess. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even just a quick weeknight dinner.

Crockpot Lentil Stew

4.6 from 1756 votes

A hearty and comforting lentil stew cooked slowly in the crockpot. Perfect for a cold day, this stew is packed with vegetables and flavor.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Stew

1 lb green or brown lentils
1 large onion, diced
3 carrots, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse lentils under cold water until water runs clear.
Drain thoroughly.
2Add lentils to the crockpot.
3Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the crockpot.
4Stir to combine with lentils.
5Add minced garlic, diced tomatoes with juice, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper to the crockpot.
6Stir well to combine all ingredients.
7Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours.
8Check the stew periodically to ensure it does not dry out.
9Add more vegetable broth if necessary.
10The lentils should be tender and the vegetables should be soft.
11The stew should have a thick, hearty consistency.
12Remove the bay leaf from the stew.
13Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
14Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

🔧Equipment

Crockpot
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 3g💛Saturated Fat: 0.5g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 60g🥦Dietary Fiber: 25g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add other vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. For a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Watch Video Of How Crockpot Lentil Stew Works

This crockpot lentil stew recipe is a staple in our household and works well for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or need something hearty for a family gathering. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort from you. Simply toss all the ingredients into your crockpot in the morning, and come home to a delicious meal ready to be served.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Lentil Stew

Q: What type of lentils should I use?

Lentils come in different varieties, but for this recipe, you can use either red or green lentils. Red lentils will break down faster and create a thicker stew, while green lentils will hold their shape better.

Q: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of in the crockpot?

Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop by sautéing the onions and garlic in a pot before adding the lentils and broth. However, keep an eye on the heat level to prevent the mixture from burning.

Q: How long does this recipe take to cook?

The cooking time will depend on the type of lentils you use. Red lentils will cook in about 30-40 minutes, while green lentils may take up to an hour.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Some options include diced bell peppers, chopped kale, or ground cumin.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly but not vegan since it contains broth made from animal bones.

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