From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/7
Instructions
1
Place a large pot over medium heat and add a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Once the oil is heated, toss in 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, along with 1 large carrot and 2 celery stalks, also chopped. Sauté these aromatic vegetables until they become tender and fragrant. (8-16 minutes)
2
Add 2 red potatoes into the pot, along with 3 to 4 minced garlic cloves. Allow them to cook and soften for about 5 minutes.
3
Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and the spices (f smoked paprika, cumin, rosemary, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes.
4
Add one can (28 ounces) of diced tomatoes, 8 cups of water or vegetable broth, and the bay leaf. Pour in the dry lentils. On medium-high heat bring the stew to a light and quick boil before reducing the heat. Simmer on medium-low heat until the lentils and potatos are tender about 30-40 minutes.
5
Add 1 cup of chopped kale (or opt for baby spinach if you prefer).
6
Stir in 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning by stirring in 2 teaspoons of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
My Calorie Intake
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Tips & Tricks (5)
- Toast Your Lentils First 🔥Dry-toast the lentils in the pot for 2-3 minutes before adding liquid to deepen their nutty flavor and improve texture by preventing mushiness.
- Build Flavor with Soffritto 🧅Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery slowly in extra virgin olive oil for 8-10 minutes until caramelized, creating an aromatic foundation that elevates the entire stew.
- Bloom Your Spices 🌶️Toast the cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes in the hot oil before adding vegetables to unlock their essential oils and maximize their warming, complex flavors.
- Strategic Kale Addition ♻️Add kale or spinach in the final 5 minutes of cooking to preserve its vibrant color, nutrient density, and tender texture instead of wilting it throughout the long simmer.
- Finish with Balsamic Brightness 🍶Stir in balsamic vinegar just before serving to add a sweet-tart depth that brightens the rich, earthy lentils and ties all the Italian flavors together harmoniously.
Recipe Facts
Diet at a Glance
Vegetarian
Vegan
Low-Cholesterol
Low Fat
My Calorie Intake
Smart Nutrition 
Nutrition Per Serving
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Glycemic Analysis
Glycemic Index
Glycemic Load
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