Go Back
To truly appreciate Hearty Lentil and Sausage Stew, it’s essential to understand the ingredients that contribute to its deliciousness and nutritional profile. At the heart of this dish are lentils, which are not only a staple in many cuisines around the world but also a powerhouse of nutrition.

Hearty Lentil and Sausage Stew

Warm up with the ultimate comfort food: Hearty Lentil and Sausage Stew. This delicious dish combines savory sausage, hearty lentils, and fresh vegetables, creating a satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings. Bursting with flavor and nutrients, it caters to various dietary preferences and is easy to prepare for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Enjoy each spoonful filled with warmth and wholesome goodness that will nourish both your body and soul.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (choose between mild or spicy according to your preference)

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, including their juices

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Remove the casing from the Italian sausage and crumble it directly into the pot. Cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, for about 5-7 minutes or until it is nicely browned and fully cooked. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a plate and set it aside.

    Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, retaining the flavorful fat, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté the mix for approximately 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is aromatic.

      Add Spices and Lentils: Sprinkle the ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and bay leaf over the sautéed vegetable medley. Stir everything together to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Introduce the rinsed lentils to the pot, allowing them to get coated with the spice mixture.

        Deglaze with Broth and Tomatoes: Slowly pour the broth into the pot, followed by the diced tomatoes and their juices. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Return the reserved sausage back into the pot, and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

          Simmer the Stew: Cover the pot with a lid and allow the stew to simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes. This will cook the lentils to tender perfection. Be sure to stir occasionally, checking for any additional seasoning if desired.

            Finish with Greens: Once the lentils are tender, add the chopped spinach or kale to the pot. Stir and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the greens to wilt beautifully into the stew.

              Serve and Garnish: Before serving, thoughtfully remove the bay leaf from the pot. Ladle the hearty stew into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: For an added touch, serve the stew with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for a delightful flavor contrast. Enjoy your savory creation!