This Hearty Spiced Lentil and Root Vegetable Stew is the kind of dish that wraps you in comfort from the very first spoonful. It's rich, earthy, and full of depth thanks to a blend of warming spices and humble ingredients.

Perfect for chilly evenings or easy meal prep, this stew delivers both nutrition and flavor without stretching your budget. Whether you're a longtime lentil lover or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Plus, it all comes together in one pot — making cleanup almost as satisfying as the meal itself.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots (approx. 250g), diced
• 2 medium potatoes (approx. 300g), cubed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 250g brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 400g can of chopped tomatoes
• 1 liter vegetable broth or water
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to lightly brown the vegetables.
4. Stir in the rinsed lentils, the can of chopped tomatoes (with their juice), and the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
6. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. For a touch of brightness, stir in the fresh lemon juice just before serving. Serve hot.

Tips & Substitutions

• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for extra warmth.
• Swap the veggies: Parsnips or sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
• Batch cook: This stew freezes beautifully—store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 1450 (entire batch)

• Fat: 33g
• Carbohydrates: 235g
• Fiber: 60g
• Protein: 68g