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In the realm of wholesome, comforting meals, few dishes resonate as profoundly as a hearty lentil and sweet potato stew. This recipe is not just a meal; it encapsulates the essence of nourishment, warmth, and satisfaction. The combination of earthy lentils, naturally sweet sweet potatoes, and a medley of vibrant vegetables creates a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. As plant-based diets continue to surge in popularity, this stew stands out as a quintessential representation of how satisfying and fulfilling vegetarian meals can be.

Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew

Discover the warmth and comfort of Hearty Lentil & Sweet Potato Stew, a nourishing plant-based recipe perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests. Packed with protein-rich lentils, sweet potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, this stew offers both delicious flavor and essential nutrients. Learn how to sauté aromatics, blend spices, and create a filling dish that's as visually appealing as it is satisfying. Ideal for meal prep, leftovers taste even better, making it a must-try for healthy eating!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup green or brown lentils, thoroughly rinsed

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

1 large onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, chopped into small pieces

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes in their juices

4 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for desired spiciness)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, stir in the minced garlic, along with the diced carrots and celery. Continue cooking for an additional 4 minutes, until the vegetables soften and develop flavor.

    Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Seasonings: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot along with the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle in the cayenne pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly to coat the sweet potatoes with the spices and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromas.

      Combine Lentils and Tomatoes: Introduce the rinsed lentils and the entire contents of the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) into the pot. Stir everything together to combine all the ingredients evenly.

        Stew to Perfection: Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and allow it to simmer for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the stew from sticking to the bottom, and check for doneness—the lentils and sweet potatoes should be tender.

          Adjust Seasoning: After the cooking time, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If the stew is too thick for your liking, feel free to add a bit more broth or water to achieve your preferred consistency.

            Serve: Ladle the hearty stew into bowls, garnishing each serving with fresh chopped parsley. This dish is perfect served warm alongside crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy cooked rice for a satisfying meal.

              Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 4