Lentil Stew over Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Why make this recipe
Lentil Stew over Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a hearty and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you want a comforting meal. The combination of the rich, flavorful stew and the smooth, creamy potatoes makes it a filling option for both lunch and dinner. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, thanks to the lentils and vegetables, making it a great choice for a healthy diet.
How to make Lentil Stew over Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Making this dish is simple and straightforward. You’ll start by preparing the lentil stew, then whip up some creamy mashed potatoes to serve it over. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (green or brown)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup milk or plant-based alternative
- 2 tablespoons butter or vegan alternative
Directions
- In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Stir in lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain, then mash with milk and butter until creamy.
- Serve the lentil stew over a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes.
How to serve Lentil Stew over Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Serve this dish warm. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top for extra flavor and a nice touch of color. Enjoy it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to store Lentil Stew over Creamy Mashed Potatoes
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The stew will stay good for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. The mashed potatoes can also be stored in the fridge for a similar duration.
Tips to make Lentil Stew over Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- For more flavor, try adding other herbs and spices like bay leaves or smoked paprika.
- You can use any type of lentils, but green or brown ones hold their shape better in stews.
- If you like a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for a little longer.
Variation
You can make this dish even heartier by adding other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the stew. You can also swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different flavor and added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use dried lentils?
Yes, you can use dried lentils, but make sure to rinse and soak them beforehand for better cooking results.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Yes, by using plant-based milk and vegan butter, this dish can easily be made vegan.
How long does it take to make this meal?
The entire meal takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, including cooking time for both the stew and the mashed potatoes.
Lentil Stew over Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Stir in lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain, then mash with milk and butter until creamy.
- Serve the lentil stew over a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes.
