Save to Pinterest There's something deeply satisfying about a bowl of Little Sprout Green Lentil Stew on a cool evening. This hearty, plant-based dish brings together the earthy richness of green lentils, the natural sweetness of carrots, and the creamy comfort of tender potatoes, all swimming in a fragrant, herb-infused broth. It's the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, nourishing both body and soul with every spoonful. Whether you're seeking a wholesome weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with loved ones, this stew delivers on all fronts—simple to prepare, deeply flavorful, and packed with nutrition.
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Green lentils are the star of this stew, holding their shape beautifully while becoming tender and creamy. Combined with aromatic vegetables like onion, garlic, and celery, plus the vibrant addition of optional baby spinach or little sprout greens, this dish is as colorful as it is delicious. The blend of thyme, oregano, and bay leaf creates layers of savory depth, while a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens everything up. It's a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients
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- Vegetables: 1 large onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 3 medium carrots (peeled and diced), 2 medium potatoes (peeled and diced), 1 celery stalk (diced), 1 cup baby spinach or little sprout greens (optional, roughly chopped)
- Lentils & Broth: 1 cup dried green lentils (rinsed), 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 cup water
- Herbs & Seasoning: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 bay leaf, ½ tsp ground cumin (optional), salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste), juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and celery; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
- Stir in carrots and potatoes; cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 3
- Add rinsed green lentils, vegetable broth, water, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Step 4
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Step 5
- Remove bay leaf. Stir in baby spinach or little sprout greens, and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
- Step 6
- Add lemon juice if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 7
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if available.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure your lentils cook evenly, always rinse them thoroughly before adding to the pot. This removes any dust or debris and helps them cook more uniformly. Keep an eye on the liquid level during simmering—if the stew becomes too thick, simply add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency. For the best flavor development, let the stew sit for 5–10 minutes after cooking before serving, allowing the herbs to fully infuse into the broth.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
This versatile stew welcomes creative adaptations. For a deeper, smokier flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika during cooking. Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to introduce a subtle sweetness that complements the earthy lentils beautifully. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the stew and stir it back in, or add a dollop of coconut cream for richness. You can also bulk up the vegetable content with diced bell peppers, zucchini, or kale.
Serviervorschläge
This Little Sprout Green Lentil Stew shines as a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread for dipping into the flavorful broth. For a heartier presentation, serve it over a bed of fluffy cooked rice, quinoa, or farro. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the warm, comforting stew. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley, cilantro, or microgreens for an elegant finishing touch.
Save to Pinterest Whether you're new to plant-based cooking or a seasoned pro, this Little Sprout Green Lentil Stew is destined to become a regular in your meal rotation. It's proof that simple, wholesome ingredients can create something truly special—a bowl of comfort that nourishes, satisfies, and warms the heart. Gather your ingredients, let the stew simmer away, and enjoy the wonderful aromas that fill your kitchen. This is home cooking at its finest.
