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Cozy Lentil Stew Recipe Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes

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A hearty lentil stew simmered in a rich tomato broth served over creamy, buttery mashed potatoes—perfect for a cozy, comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried lentils (brown or green work best)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 3 cups vegetable broth (or water with bouillon)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup milk (use plant-based milk if needed)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the lentils, crushed tomatoes, thyme, and oregano. Cook for 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the stew gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth to thin it out.
  6. Boil the potatoes in a medium saucepan filled with salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  7. Drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
  8. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk or butter to your desired consistency.
  9. Serve the lentil stew over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.

Notes

[‘Let the lentils simmer gently to absorb all the flavors of the broth and spices.’, ‘Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for the creamiest mashed potatoes.’, ‘Taste as you go and adjust salt and seasoning as needed.’, ‘The lentil stew can be made a day in advance for deeper flavors.’, ‘Avoid overmixing the mashed potatoes to keep them fluffy.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: lentil stew, mashed potatoes, comfort food, vegetarian recipe, gluten-free, hearty meal