Go Back
Jessica T. Brown

Lentil and Vegetable Stew

A hearty, fiber-rich vegetable stew made with red lentils, potatoes, carrots, and greens, simmered in a savory herb-infused broth. Quick, vegan, and perfect for meal prepping, this dish delivers plant-based protein and essential nutrients in under 30 minutes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Healthy, Vegan, Vegetarian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium onion – finely diced
  • 1 large celery stalk – chopped into small pieces
  • 2 medium potatoes – cut into 1-inch cubes approx. 3 heaping cups
  • 2 large carrots – sliced into thick rounds
  • 10 small brown button mushrooms – halved optional
  • ½ tablespoon dried sage – ground or finely crushed
  • ½ tablespoon dried rosemary – ground or finely crushed
  • 1 vegetable bouillon cube – or 2 cups vegetable broth see notes
  • 4 cups water – adjust as needed for desired thickness
  • 1 cup uncooked red lentils – soaked for 1–2 hours for quicker cooking optional
  • 2 packed cups broccoli florets – cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ tablespoon Bragg's liquid aminos or soy sauce – gluten-free if preferred
  • 1 tightly packed cup leafy greens – such as spinach collard greens, or kale, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper – to taste
  • Fresh parsley – for optional garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Dutch Oven or Large Pot (6-quart capacity)
  • 1 Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula
  • 1 Chef’s Knife
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Measuring Cup (4-cup capacity)

Method
 

  1. Build the Flavor Base: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2–3 tablespoons of water over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and slightly translucent. If the onion starts to stick, splash in a little extra water to loosen it
  2. Add the Core Vegetables and Seasonings: Toss in the celery, potato cubes, carrot slices, and mushrooms (if using). Sprinkle the dried sage and rosemary over the vegetables, stirring well to coat them in the herbs and allow the flavors to bloom.
  3. Simmer with Lentils and Broth: Crumble the vegetable bouillon cube into the pot, then pour in 4 cups of water. Add the rinsed lentils, stirring to combine everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The potatoes should just begin to soften.
  4. Cook the Broccoli and Thicken the Stew: Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Continue cooking for another 8–10 minutes, uncovered this time, until the lentils have broken down into a creamy consistency and the broccoli is tender yet bright green. Stir occasionally to keep everything well-mixed.
  5. Final Seasoning and Greens: Stir in Bragg’s liquid aminos or soy sauce, adjusting salt and black pepper to taste. If using leafy greens, add them in now, cooking just long enough for them to wilt (about 1–2 minutes).
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the thick, hearty stew into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread or a side of rice for an extra-filling meal.

Notes

  • Celery Alternative: Swap for leek or omit entirely if preferred.
  • Potato Swap: Sweet potatoes or butternut squash add a different flavor and more natural sweetness.
  • Vegetable Variations: Substitute carrots or mushrooms with zucchini, parsnips, or cauliflower for a different texture profile.
  • Using Canned Lentils: If you prefer pre-cooked lentils, skip the early simmering step and add them with the broccoli to avoid overcooking.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
  • Consistency: For a thinner stew, add more water or vegetable broth during cooking. For a thicker texture, simmer uncovered a bit longer.