Description
This hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew is a comforting, nutritious dish perfect for cozy dinners. Combining earthy lentils, savory cremini mushrooms, and wholesome vegetables simmered in a flavorful tomato and vegetable broth, this stew is rich in plant-based protein and fiber. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and a splash of red wine, it delivers depth of flavor, while kale or spinach adds a fresh, vibrant finish. Suitable for a vegan lifestyle, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and brimming with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 diced potato
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Pantry Items
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A splash of red wine
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.
- Cook mushrooms and garlic: Add the minced garlic and sliced cremini mushrooms to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Add flavorings: Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute to help release the spices’ aromas and deepen the stew’s flavor.
- Add main ingredients and simmer: Add rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, diced potato, bay leaf, and a splash of red wine to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes or until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
- Season and add greens: Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in chopped kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish the stew with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot for a nourishing vegan meal.
Notes
- Rinsing lentils before cooking removes excess starch and prevents them from becoming too mushy.
- You can substitute kale with spinach or other leafy greens depending on preference.
- For a richer flavor, use a good quality vegetable broth and consider adding a splash of red wine as specified.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the lentils or potatoes before serving.
- This stew stores well and tastes even better the next day once flavors have melded.