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Cozy Vegan Lentil Stew: The Easiest Protein-Packed Plant-Based Dinner

“Easy Vegan Lentil Stew for Cozy Dinners”
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A protein-packed vegan lentil stew loaded with vegetables, savory herbs, tomato, and leafy greens. Hearty, nourishing, and ideal for cozy dinners, meal prep, or healthy lunch bowls.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, peeled & sliced

2 stalks celery, sliced

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

6 cups vegetable broth or water

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

1 tsp cumin

1 bay leaf

2 cups chopped spinach or kale

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt & pepper to taste

Juice of 1 lemon (or 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar)

Optional: 1/2 tsp chili flakes for heat

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened, 5–7 minutes.

  • Stir in spices, letting them bloom for 1 minute. Add lentils, tomatoes, broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

  • Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 25–30 minutes (red lentils: 20 minutes), until lentils and veggies are tender.

  • Stir in spinach/kale and lemon juice, simmer for 2 more minutes.

  • Taste, adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, acid). Remove bay leaf before serving.

  • Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

  • Keeps well for 4–5 days refrigerated.

  • Add vegan sausage, mushrooms, or potatoes for variations.

  • Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://veganrecepies.com/easy-vegan-lentil-recipes/