Looking for a quick, easy, and nutritious meal that you can rely on throughout the week? Look no further than this flavorful lentil and sweet potato stew! This vegetarian recipe is packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, while the sweet potato adds a touch of sweetness and natural creaminess. Plus, it comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a satisfying and delicious meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a healthy and comforting dish. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices and garnishes to create your own signature version.
Ingredients:
- 200g (7 oz) yellow lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and chopped into cubes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Green onions (scallions), chopped (for garnish)
- 250ml (8 oz) non-dairy milk (almond milk, cashew milk, etc.)
Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (Gochugaru) – optional (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian herbs
- Salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (Note: This is not typical in lentil recipes, so you can omit it if you don’t have it on hand. It might affect the texture slightly.)
Additional Flavor Boosters (Optional):
- Tomato sauce (to taste)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Rinse the lentils thoroughly. Peel and chop the sweet potato into bite-sized cubes. Mince the garlic and chop the green onions for garnish.
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Combine and Simmer: In a medium pot, combine the rinsed lentils, chopped sweet potato, minced garlic, and non-dairy milk.
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Add the Seasonings: Add all the seasonings except the tomato sauce and parsley. This includes Korean chili flakes (optional, adjust for spice preference), Italian herbs, salt, garlic powder, turmeric powder, and onion powder.
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Simmer Until Tender: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes. The lentils should be tender and the sweet potato cooked through. If the mixture becomes too dry while simmering, feel free to add a little more water or non-dairy milk.
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Flavor Boost (Optional): Once cooked, stir in your desired amount of tomato sauce for a richer flavor. This is entirely optional, but it can add a nice depth to the stew.
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Season and Garnish: Taste the stew and adjust seasonings as needed with additional salt or spices. Finally, remove the pot from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and green onions.
More Information:
- This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
- The baking powder is an optional ingredient and may not be commonly found in lentil recipes. It can slightly affect the texture, but feel free to omit it if you don’t have it on hand.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or non-dairy milk if needed to thin out the consistency.
Conclusion:
This simple and delicious lentil and sweet potato stew is a perfect example of how healthy eating can be flavorful and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, uses minimal ingredients, and is endlessly customizable. So ditch the takeout menus and give this recipe a try. You might just find yourself making it every week too!