When the aroma of earthy lentils mingles with the creamy texture of mashed potatoes, magic happens in your kitchen. Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes is not just a dish; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth and comfort like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. creamy potato gratin.
Imagine diving into a hearty bowl where tender lentils dance in a savory broth, perfectly balanced by the fluffiness of mashed potatoes. Each spoonful bursts with flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones, especially when it’s raining outside and you want nothing more than to hibernate under a pile of blankets with your favorite comfort food. layered zucchini ricotta melts. For more inspiration, check out this crispy German potato pancakes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is easy to whip up even on the busiest days, making meal prep simple
- The rich flavors will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul
- Visually appealing with its rustic charm, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying alone
- Versatile enough to serve as a main course or a side dish, this recipe adapts to any occasion
One rainy Sunday afternoon, I made this lentil stew for my friends during our regular game night. Their delighted faces and second helpings were all the feedback I needed to know I struck gold with this recipe! vegetarian Greek nachos.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Green or Brown Lentils: Choose firm lentils that hold their shape well during cooking; they add a lovely texture.
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Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
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Carrots: Fresh carrots bring color and natural sweetness; chop them small for quicker cooking.
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Celery: Celery contributes a delightful crunch and earthy flavor, enhancing the stew’s complexity.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the dish with aroma; use at least three cloves for great flavor.
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Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for acidity; they balance out the richness of the lentils beautifully.
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Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium vegetable broth enhances flavor without overwhelming saltiness; perfect for simmering lentils. spanakopita with lentils.
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Potatoes: Use russet or Yukon gold potatoes for creamy mashed potatoes that pair perfectly with lentil stew. For more inspiration, check out this creamy vegetable soup recipe.
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Butter and Cream: Add these to your mashed potatoes for richness; adjust to your taste preference.
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Spices (Cumin & Thyme): These spices give depth and warmth; adjust quantities based on your spice tolerance.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; season to taste throughout cooking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat; add olive oil. Toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about five minutes.
Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic along with cumin and thyme. Cook until the garlic becomes aromatic but be careful not to burn it—about one minute should do.
Add Lentils and Tomatoes: Pour in rinsed lentils along with canned tomatoes. Stir well to combine everything evenly—a comforting symphony of colors begins here.
Simmer Away!: Add vegetable broth while bringing everything to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
Mash Those Potatoes!: While your stew simmers away, peel and cut potatoes into chunks. Boil them until fork-tender, then drain and mash with butter and cream until fluffy.
Serve it Up!: Spoon generous helpings of lentil stew over mounds of creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired—enjoy every delightful bite!
This Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes is not just food; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and savor life’s simple pleasures together.
You Must Know
- Lentil stew over mashed potatoes is a cozy, hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings
- This meal not only warms the soul but also fills the belly, making it a go-to comfort food
- The rich flavors and creamy textures will make you want seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Cook the lentils first until soft, then prepare the mashed potatoes while the stew simmers. This ensures everything is hot and ready to serve together.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color. You can also spice it up with a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor depth; they elevate the dish beautifully
- Make sure to rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to enhance flavor and texture
- For creamier mashed potatoes, use warmed milk and butter during mashing
I once made this dish for a potluck, and everyone raved about it! I even had to share the recipe with a few friends who couldn’t believe something so simple could taste so good.
FAQ
Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?
Yes, just remember to soak them overnight for best results before cooking.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
It takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it quite quick!
Can I freeze leftovers of lentil stew over mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Just store them in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Warm and hearty, this Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food. Picture tender lentils simmered in a rich broth, served atop creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, this dish is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor life’s simple pleasures. Easy to prepare and brimming with flavor, it’s a wonderful way to nourish your body and soul.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 large russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp butter (for mashed potatoes)
- ¼ cup cream (for mashed potatoes)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened.
- 2. Add minced garlic, cumin, and thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3. Stir in rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes; combine well.
- 4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- 5. In the meantime, boil cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter and cream until fluffy.
- 6. Serve generous portions of lentil stew over creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
