Slow Cooker Lentil Stew: Hearty and Nutritious Comfort Meal

Lentils have been a dietary staple for centuries, and for good reason. They are highly nutritious, affordable, and versatile. Here are some of the health benefits they offer:

1. Rich in Protein: Lentils are an excellent plant-based protein source, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans. One cup of cooked lentils contains about 18 grams of protein, supporting muscle growth and overall health.
2. High in Fiber: A single serving of lentils provides a significant portion of your daily fiber needs, aiding digestion and promoting gut health. The high fiber content also helps regulate cholesterol levels and supports heart health.
3. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Lentils are loaded with iron, folate, potassium, and magnesium, all contributing to overall health. Folate is particularly beneficial for pregnant women as it supports fetal development.
4. Low in Fat and Calories: They make a satisfying meal without adding unnecessary calories or unhealthy fats, making them an excellent choice for weight management.
5. Blood Sugar Friendly: Lentils have a low glycemic index, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full longer, which is particularly beneficial for individuals managing diabetes.
6. Boosts Immune Function: Lentils are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients that help support a strong immune system, protecting against illnesses and infections.
7. Environmentally Friendly: Lentils require significantly fewer growing resources than animal-based protein sources, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly food choice.

Why Use a Slow Cooker?

A slow cooker, a Crock-Pot, is one of the most convenient appliances for hearty meals. Here’s why it’s perfect for making lentil stew:

1. Hands-Off Cooking: Just add the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
2. Deep Flavor Development: Slow cooking melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying stew.
3. Tenderizes Ingredients: Even tougher vegetables and beans become soft and flavorful after hours of cooking.
4. Energy Efficient: A slow cooker uses less energy than an oven or stovetop, making it a cost-effective cooking method.
5. Great for Meal Prep: Cook once and enjoy multiple servings weekly.

Ingredients

To make a hearty and flavorful slow cooker lentil stew, you’ll need:

• 2 cups dried lentils (green, brown, or a mix)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (optional for added greens)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for a bright finish)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain. Chop all vegetables and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional): For a deeper flavor, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until they become fragrant (about 5 minutes). This step enhances the stew’s depth but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
3. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker: Add the lentils, sautéed vegetables (if using), diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Set and Forget: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Add Greens and Lemon Juice: If using kale or spinach, stir it for 10-15 minutes before serving. Add the lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.
6. Taste and Adjust: Remove the bay leaf, taste the stew, and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add extra broth to reach your desired consistency if the stew is too thick.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread, rice, or a simple side salad.

One of the best things about lentil stew is its versatility. Here are some ways to tweak the lentil stew recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences:

1. Make It Spicy: For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
2. Add Protein: If you eat meat, stir in cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or ground turkey. For a plant-based protein boost, add chickpeas.
3. Boost the Veggies: Swap out or add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, or even butternut squash for added texture and nutrition.
4. Use Different Lentils: Green and brown lentils hold their shape well, while red lentils break down for a creamier texture. Try mixing different types for a unique consistency. To make It Creamy, Stir in a splash of coconut milk, heavy cream, or cashew cream for a richer, velvety consistency.
5. Add Grains: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in cooked quinoa, barley, or rice for a heartier stew.
6. Brighten the Flavor: A splash of apple cider or balsamic vinegar can enhance the depth of flavors.
7. Cheesy Twist: Stir some grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for an extra umami kick.
8. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or cilantro to elevate the stew's aroma and taste.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
2. Freezing: Lentil stew freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the stew.

Your Butcher Shop

Welcome to your favorite butcher shop. We carry custom cuts of beef, chicken, lamb, goat, grass-fed beef, wagyu, deli, and more. We ship across the United States in 1-2 business days.