One-Pot Lentil and Vegetable Stew: Easy Vegan Dinner

Looking for a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that’s full of flavor, fiber, and feel-good ingredients? This Lentil and Vegetable Stew is a one-pot wonder that checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, great for meal prep, and tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re feeding a family or just trying to adult like a pro, this cozy stew is here to save dinner time.

Key Ingredients That Make This Lentil and Vegetable Stew a Standout

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a role in creating rich, layered flavor while keeping things wholesome and nourishing. Here are a few key stars:

Root Vegetables (Potato, Carrot): These bulk up the stew, making it more filling while soaking up all the delicious spices.

Lentils: The real MVP. Green or brown lentils add hearty texture and plant-based protein, making this stew ultra-satisfying.

Aromatics (Onion + Garlic): The flavor base that gives this stew that classic, homemade depth.

Cumin + Herbs: A combination of cumin, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf brings warm, earthy notes and complexity.

Tomatoes: Canned or fresh, tomatoes add a bright acidity that balances the richness of the lentils and veggies.

How to Make Lentil and Vegetable Stew (The Easy Way)

This hearty stew is not only nutritious but also very cost-effective.

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Prepare Ingredients:

• Rinse the lentils under cold water.
• Chop the vegetables as specified.

Sauté Vegetables:

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat (if using).
• Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Vegetables and Spices:

• Add the chopped carrots, celery, and potato to the pot.
• Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, and ground cumin.

Cook Lentils:

• Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and vegetable broth (or water).
• Add the bay leaf.

Simmer:

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
• Cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.

Season:

• Remove the bay leaf.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

• Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Ways to Enjoy Your Lentil and Vegetable Stew

This stew is a multitasking champion. Here are a few creative and delicious ways to enjoy it:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside sourdough or a whole wheat baguette for dipping.
• Over Grains: Pour it over brown rice, quinoa, or couscous for a filling power bowl.
• Stuffed in a Baked Potato: Use leftovers as a protein-rich topping.
• Meal Prep Magic: Store in glass containers and reheat throughout the week—it only gets tastier.

Tips for Storage, Nutrition, and Customization

Storage Tips:

• Keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezes beautifully—store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to revive.

Nutritional Perks:

• High in fiber and protein
• Naturally gluten-free
• Vegan and low in fat (especially if you skip the oil)

Optional Add-ins:

• Add a handful of spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra greens.
• Stir in a squeeze of lemon or a splash of vinegar before serving to brighten it up.

Why You’ll Love This Lentil Stew

This recipe is:
✅ Budget-friendly
✅ Plant-based and hearty
✅ Packed with nutrients
✅ Great for batch cooking and meal prep
✅ Easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand

Adulting doesn’t mean boring dinners or breaking your budget—sometimes, it just takes one pot and a little know-how. This Lentil and Vegetable Stew is your cozy, nutritious, and dependable go-to when life gets a little hectic.

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