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French Lentil Stew French Lentil Stew

Recipe

French Lentil Stew

Written by: Lucas Johnson

This hearty French lentil stew is my go-to comfort food. Packed with veggies and herbs, it's a warm, nourishing bowl of goodness perfect for chilly nights. Simple, wholesome, and utterly satisfying.

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I stumbled upon this French lentil stew recipe during my travels through southern France. Rustic, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this dish quickly became my go-to comfort food. Packed with nutritious lentils, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it's both satisfying and simple to make. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're craving something wholesome, this stew will transport your taste buds straight to a cozy French countryside kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked!

Ingredients for a Hearty and Flavorful Lentil Stew

  • French lentils: French lentils add a hearty texture and earthy flavor, making them perfect for a robust and satisfying stew.
  • Olive oil: Olive oil provides a rich base and enhances the flavors of the vegetables and herbs in the stew.
  • Onion: Onions add a sweet and savory depth to the stew, creating a flavorful foundation for the other ingredients.
  • Garlic: Garlic infuses the stew with a bold and aromatic flavor, elevating the overall taste of the dish.
  • Carrots: Carrots bring a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the stew, balancing out the savory elements.
  • Celery: Celery adds a refreshing crunch and subtle herbal note, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile of the stew.
  • Diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes provide a rich and tangy base, adding depth and acidity to the stew.
  • Vegetable broth: Vegetable broth infuses the stew with savory umami flavors and helps bind all the ingredients together harmoniously.
  • Dried thyme: Dried thyme contributes a warm and earthy aroma, complementing the other herbs and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  • Dried rosemary: Dried rosemary imparts a pine-like fragrance and robust flavor, adding a savory and aromatic element to the stew.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making French Lentil Stew

  • Large pot: Essential for cooking the stew and accommodating all the ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the stew without damaging the pot's surface.
french-lentil-stew

French Lentil Stew

A hearty and nutritious stew made with French lentils, perfect for a cozy meal.
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Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Total Time 1 hr
Course Main Course
Cuisine French
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients:  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup French lentils rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp thyme dried
  • 1 tsp rosemary dried
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper or to taste

Instructions: 

  • 1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • 2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • 3. Add the chopped carrots and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes.
  • 4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, lentils, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  • 5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  • 6. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.

Notes:

This stew is even better the next day. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition value:

Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 15gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 4mg

Keywords:

Keyword Lentil Stew
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Tips for Making French Lentil Stew Ahead of Time

Make Ahead Instructions

  • The stew can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen it up.

Freezing Instructions

  • Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop.

French lentils, also known as Puy lentils, hold their shape well when cooked, making them perfect for salads and stews. They are rich in fiber and protein, making them a nutritious addition to your meals.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Lentil Stew Recipe

FAQ:
Can I use regular brown lentils instead of French lentils?
Yes, you can substitute regular brown lentils for French lentils in this recipe, but the cooking time may vary.
How can I make this stew more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of the stew, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika before serving.
Is this stew suitable for freezing?
Yes, this French lentil stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use fresh herbs in place of dried ones. Just remember to adjust the quantities as fresh herbs tend to be more potent.
How long can I store this stew in the refrigerator?
You can store this French lentil stew in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure to keep it in a sealed container.

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