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Introduction:
Lentils have long been a staple in vegetarian and vegan diets, yet many people still overlook their potential. If you're a meat enthusiast, you might be surprised to discover just how satisfying and delicious lentils can be, often outshining meat in both flavor and texture. This lentil dish has quickly become a personal favorite of mine, and I can't believe I hadn't heard of it sooner. Whether you're looking to reduce meat consumption or simply try something new, this dish is sure to leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water, removing any debris. Set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Cook the Carrot and Celery: Add the diced carrot and celery to the pot, cooking for another 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Simmer with Lentils: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the lentils and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the stew has thickened.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a soupier consistency, you can add more vegetable broth or water. Stir occasionally, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
Finish and Serve: Once the lentils are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice for an added burst of flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: This lentil dish can be served with a side of warm bread, over rice, or with a dollop of yogurt for added richness. It's perfect for both a hearty dinner or a nutritious lunch.
Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variants:
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