How to Create Hearty Lentil and Spinach Stew
When it comes to cozy, wholesome, and budget-friendly meals, few dishes beat a bowl of lentil and spinach stew. Packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber, this dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, lentil and spinach stew is easy to make with simple ingredients, making it the perfect recipe for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a quick and healthy meal. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a delicious pot of lentil and spinach stew.
Why Lentil and Spinach Stew Is Amazing
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why this stew is worth making:
- Affordable: Lentils are one of the cheapest sources of protein, and spinach is widely available in fresh or frozen form.
- Healthy: Lentils are rich in protein and fiber, while spinach is loaded with iron, vitamins, and antioxidants. Together, they make a powerhouse meal.
- Versatile: You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Don’t like spinach? You can substitute it with kale or chard. Prefer spicy food? Add more chili powder.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can find most of the ingredients in your local grocery store, and you may already have some in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the stew base:
- 1 cup dried lentils (green, brown, or red lentils work well)
- 8 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
For flavor:
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the greens:
- 3-4 cups fresh spinach or 1 package of frozen spinach
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you wash and sort your lentils. Occasionally, dried lentils may contain small stones or debris, so rinse them well under running water and check for anything unusual. Chop your onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into small pieces to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. Then, add the carrots and celery, and sauté for another 5-6 minutes. Stir often to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 3: Add lentils and broth
Now it’s time to add the lentils to the pot. Stir them with the sautéed vegetables so they are evenly mixed. Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add seasoning
Once the liquid comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and add your seasoning—cumin, paprika, thyme (if using), bay leaf, salt, and pepper. This combination of spices will give your stew a warm and earthy flavor. Stir well to distribute the seasonings.
Step 5: Simmer until tender
Cover the pot loosely with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the pot. The lentils should absorb much of the liquid and become tender, creating a thick, hearty texture.
Step 6: Add tomatoes and spinach
Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the diced tomatoes. If you’re using canned tomatoes, there’s no need to strain them—simply pour them in along with the juice for added flavor.
Next, add the spinach. If you’re working with fresh spinach, wash it well and remove any tough stems before tossing it into the pot. Frozen spinach can go directly into the stew without any prep. Stir everything together, and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, until the spinach wilts and blends into the stew.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or spices if needed. If the stew is too thick for your liking, you can also add a splash of water or broth to thin it out.
Serving Suggestions
Your hearty lentil and spinach stew is now ready to enjoy! Serve it hot with a slice of crusty bread or a side of rice for a complete meal. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a dollop of yogurt, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Leftovers? No problem! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to blend. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months for a quick and healthy meal later.
Final Thoughts
Making lentil and spinach stew is a simple way to create a warm and nourishing meal. With basic ingredients and easy steps, you can prepare a dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a cozy night at home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the wholesome goodness of lentils and spinach.
Happy cooking!
