Spicy Lentil Stew is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines the earthiness of red lentils with a medley of aromatic spices. With the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to effortlessly create a satisfying and nourishing stew that will warm your soul.
The combination of red lentils, crushed tomatoes, and a blend of spices creates a robust and spicy flavor profile in this stew. The lentils offer a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, while the spices add depth and complexity to the dish. From the heat of the chili powder to the warmth of the ginger and turmeric, each spice contributes to the overall deliciousness of the stew.
Using a slow cooker ensures that the lentils are cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender and creamy texture. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together and intensify, creating a rich and satisfying stew.
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 cups red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 3 1/2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 tbsp black pepper
- 1/2 tbsp curry powder
- 1/2 tbsp paprika
- 1/2 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tbsp garam masala
- 1/2 tbsp turmeric powder
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 Serrano chilies, diced
- 2 tbsp cilantro, minced
- 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1/2 tbsp ginger powder
PREPARATIONS:
- In the slow cooker, combine the red lentils, crushed tomatoes, black pepper, curry powder, paprika, chili powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, vegetable broth, diced onion, minced garlic cloves, diced Serrano chilies, minced cilantro, Creole seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and ginger powder.
- Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the lentils to become tender.
- After 5 hours, uncover the slow cooker and continue cooking for another 50 minutes to further thicken the stew.
- Serve the Spicy Lentil Stew hot and enjoy the bold and aromatic flavors.
YIELD: Serves 8
TOTAL TIME: 6 hours 15 minutes
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Adjust the amount of chili powder and Serrano chilies according to your spice tolerance. Increase or decrease the heat level to suit your taste.
- For a milder version, you can substitute the Serrano chilies with milder peppers like jalapenos.
- Feel free to add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to enhance the nutritional content and add extra texture to the stew.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:
- Calories: 318
- Fat: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 51 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
TIPS:
- Serve the Spicy Lentil Stew with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Top the stew with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lime juice to balance out the spiciness and add a creamy or tangy element.
- This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat for future meals.
Spicy Lentil Stew is a fantastic choice for those seeking a flavorful and wholesome meal. With its combination of red lentils, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato base, this stew is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished.
The slow cooker method allows for effortless preparation and ensures that the lentils are cooked to perfection. As the stew simmers away, the lentils absorb the flavors from the spices and tomatoes, resulting in a velvety texture and a rich, savory taste. The slow cooking process also allows the spices to infuse the dish, creating a warm and aromatic aroma that will have your kitchen smelling inviting.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the spice level to your liking by adjusting the amount of chili powder and Serrano chilies. If you prefer a milder version, simply reduce the amount of heat-inducing ingredients. Additionally, you can incorporate your favorite vegetables into the stew to add more nutritional value and create a well-rounded meal. Bell peppers, carrots, or spinach are all great options to consider.
To enhance the experience of enjoying Spicy Lentil Stew, serve it with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice. The bread can be used to scoop up the flavorful broth, while the rice acts as a satisfying base that complements the stew perfectly. For a refreshing twist, you can top the stew with a dollop of cooling Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lime juice, which will help balance the spiciness and add a delightful creaminess or tanginess to each spoonful.
If you have any leftovers, consider yourself lucky! The flavors of this stew deepen and intensify overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave.
In conclusion, Spicy Lentil Stew is a recipe that offers both convenience and tremendous flavor. The slow cooker does the work for you, allowing you to savor the aroma and taste of a robust and spicy lentil dish. Whether you’re a fan of lentils or simply looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, this stew is a fantastic choice. Give it a try and experience the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.
