Delicious Vegan Lentil Stew – A Nutrient Rich Dish

When the weather is cold and damp, you want a meal that will warm you up from the inside. Something that’s both filling and comforting without requiring much effort in the kitchen. And if it could be healthy as well, that’s a bonus!

Lentil stew is healthy and hearty, a filling dish low on calories without compromising taste.

With a thinner texture than soup, this stew is packed with veggies and seasonings that are entirely customizable. It’s also vegetarian, vegan, and naturally gluten-free (Also check out Easy To Make Vegetarian Stew Recipes).

Perfect for batch cooking, healthy vegan lentil stew will become your go-to cold-weather meal. It’s loaded with protein and rich in fiber to keep you feeling full when it gets chilly.

Ready to make vegan lentil stew? Discover the recipe (and why you’ll fall in love with it) with our guide.

What Is Vegan Lentil Stew?

Vegan Lentil Stew is a comforting, nutrient-rich dish from simmering lentils, vegetables, and herbs in a flavorful broth. 

This plant-based delicacy boasts high protein and fiber content, thanks to the lentils, and is further enriched with vitamins and minerals from vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and leafy greens. 

Often seasoned with herbs like thyme and rosemary, it offers a satisfying depth of flavor. Ideal for cold weather or any time you crave a wholesome meal, it’s a versatile favorite that caters to both health and palate.

History Of Vegan Lentil Stew  

The roots of lentil stew can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where lentils were a staple food source. The vegan iteration is a relatively modern innovation, gaining prominence as plant-based diets have risen in popularity. 

Vegan Lentil Stew has become a global phenomenon by borrowing elements from traditional stews across various cultures. Its simplicity allows it to be easily adapted, incorporating spices and flavors from various cuisines. 

Over time, it has evolved into a beloved dish in vegan and health-conscious communities, symbolizing nourishment and ethical eating.

Interesting Facts About The Vegan Lentil Stew  

• Protein Powerhouse: Lentils in the stew provide a significant source of plant-based protein, making it a favorite among athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
• Nutrient Density: Packed with fiber, iron, and vitamins, this stew is a one-pot solution for balanced nutrition.
• Culinary Chameleon: The dish is highly adaptable, easily incorporating various global flavors, from Indian spices to Mediterranean herbs.
• Quick Cooking: Unlike other legumes, lentils don’t require pre-soaking, making this stew a time-efficient meal option.
• Budget-Friendly: Lentils and vegetables are economical ingredients, making this dish accessible to those on a budget.
• Allergy-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and nut-free, it’s a safe choice for those with food sensitivities.
• Environmental Impact: Lentils have a low carbon footprint compared to animal-based protein sources, making the stew an eco-conscious choice.
• A Therapeutic Meal: Stewing and aromatic spices can be calming, turning meal preparation into mindfulness.

What Makes The Vegan Lentil Stew Special? 

We think this lentil stew is the ultimate cold-weather meal, but here are some reasons why we think you’ll fall in love with it:

• It’s vegan without compromise. Because the stew is vegan by design, there’s no compromise! All the flavors are big and powerful, taste comforting and filling. Some vegan dishes can feel like they are missing something, but that’s not true here.
• It’s a one-pot meal. All you need is one large pot to make this stew! That means less mess, less fuss, and less cleaning up.
• It’s perfect for meal prepping. This stew can be kept in the fridge for roughly 7 days. Over this time, the flavors will deepen, so the stew will taste even better! You can make a big batch at the weekend and enjoy a quick and delicious meal throughout the week.
• It’s freezer-friendly. Got leftovers? Freeze them! The stew freezes well and can be kept for up to 3 months. Defrost thoroughly and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• It’s adaptable. You can play around with the seasonings and vegetables to create a perfect dish for your tastes. Customize the spice balance to create something you love!

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity & Type
Olive Oil	2 tablespoons
Onion	1
Garlic Cloves	4
Carrots	2 large
Celery Stalk	1
Russet Potatoes	3 cups diced (about 2 medium)
Dry Brown Lentils	1 cup
Smoked Paprika	2 teaspoons
Fresh Rosemary	2 tablespoons
Fresh Thyme	2 tablespoons
Bay Leaves	2
Vegetable Broth	4 cups
Fresh Lemon Juice	1 tablespoon
Spinach	2 cups
Salt and Pepper	To taste (around ½ teaspoon each)

Ingredients Needed For The Soup

The ingredients list might look long, but most items are basics/things you’ll already have!

This, like any good stew, is also an adaptable recipe. You can play around with seasonings and vegetables to create a stew that’s perfect for you.

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Any oil will do, but olive oil’s high smoke point and silky flavor make it a perfect choice. For non-vegans, consider using butter. This will add a touch more richness to your stew.
• 1 onion. White or brown onions are best, but you can use whatever onion you can get your hands on. Shallots add a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the lentils. As shallots are small, we recommend using 2 or 3.
• 4 garlic cloves. You can use less if you don’t love garlic, but we appreciate the punch 4 fresh cloves provide.
• 2 large carrots. Carrots add a slight sweetness to your dish and some interesting textures.
• 1 celery stalk. Celery is a quiet ingredient in lentil stew, but it helps develop the rich flavor balance you’d expect in a good stew.
• 3 cups of diced russet potatoes (roughly 2 medium potatoes). The potatoes help bulk the stew out while absorbing all the delicious flavors of the broth. We think russet potatoes have the best texture, but you can experiment with other types.
• 1 cup of dry brown lentils. Dry brown lentils are our top choice for big flavors and textures. However, there is room to play around. We’ll cover the lentils in more detail below.
• 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika. The depth and sweetness of smoked paprika are perfect for a cold day. If you enjoy your food with a kick, try using hot paprika instead. Sweet paprika also works, but you’ll have less complexity in the final stew. It’ll still be delicious, however!
• 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary. Light and aromatic, chopped fresh rosemary is the perfect addition to a stew. If you can’t get fresh, substitute for dried. Roughly 2 teaspoons of dried rosemary should do.
• 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme. As with rosemary, fresh thyme is best for that aromatic taste. If you can’t get it, use 2 teaspoons of dried thyme.
• 2 bay leaves. Bay leaves are part of that classic stew seasoning. You can use fresh or dried but take dried leaves out before serving.
• 4 cups of vegetable broth. Use your favorite store-bought broth, or make your own from veggie odds and ends. If you’re using store-bought, choose a low-sodium variety. That allows you to fine-tune the seasonings.
• 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. The burst of acid from lemon juice brightens the flavor, helping to balance out the fragrant taste.
• 2 cups of spinach. Spinach bulks out the recipe, adds extra nutrients and gives some peppery overtones. You can switch spinach for kale or other leafy greens (or leave it out altogether). You can also use frozen spinach! Add frozen spinach slightly earlier in the cooking process so it has time to defrost and simmer.
• Salt and pepper. The classic seasonings! You’ll probably need around ½ teaspoon of each, but taste as you cook to get the flavor right.
• This recipe makes roughly 6 servings, but again, it’s very adaptable. The stew lasts up to 7 days in the fridge and can be kept for around 3 months in the freezer. So, make a big batch!
• You can store it in portions to break out on rainy days when you want something comforting.

Ingredient Tips 

• Olive Oil: Opt for extra virgin for the best flavor profile. The choice of oil can impact the overall taste.
• Onion: If you’re using shallots, briefly caramelize them for a richer flavor.
• Garlic: Using a garlic press can extract more flavor compared to chopping.
• Carrots: Go for organic if possible, as they contribute flavor and color.
• Celery: Look for fresh, crisp stalks to maintain a robust flavor.
• Potatoes: Using russet potatoes with the skin on adds extra fiber.
• Lentils: Rinse well before using to remove any impurities.
• Paprika: Store in a cool, dark place to maintain potency.
• Fresh Herbs: If unavailable, remember the dried herb conversion: 1 tablespoon new equals 1 teaspoon dried.
• Vegetable Broth: For a homemade touch, simmer leftover vegetable scraps to create your broth.

What Lentils Should I Use For Lentil Stew?

The lentils are the heart of this hearty stew. You can’t go wrong when choosing lentils. However, each type will deliver a different effect. Let’s look at some of the lentils you can use.

• Brown lentils. Dry brown lentils are our top pick for this lentil stew. They’re ubiquitous, so you should be able to find them in your favorite store. Brown lentils cook for about 30 minutes and hold their shape. That makes them great for adding texture to a stew.
• Green lentils. Compared to brown lentils, green lentils have a richer flavor. They also keep their shape when cooked and have a nice, chewy texture. Green lentils take slightly longer to cook than brown lentils.
• Puy lentils. With a silky texture and a delicious taste, puy lentils deliver in a stew. They also only take around 25 minutes to cook, making them an easy replacement for brown lentils. However, puy lentils can be significantly more expensive than other varieties!
• Red lentils. Red lentils’ sweeter and milder flavor makes them perfect for an Indian dal, especially as they turn soft when cooked. Red lentils have a relatively brief cooking time (15 to 20 minutes) but lose shape when cooked. While this can be delicious, it will change the texture of your stew.
• Canned lentils. Canned lentils are pre-cooked lentils, typically green or brown. As they’ve already been cooked, you only need to heat these lentils through, so they can be ready in around 5 minutes. Canned lentils don’t absorb the flavors around them like dried ones do. If you plan on using canned lentils, add them at the end of the cooking time.
• Our top choice is dry brown lentils. They absorb the broth’s flavor as they cook and add a delicious chunky texture to the final dish. Dry green lentils or puy lentils are also a good choice. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
• If you have red lentils, you can use them in this dish. However, keep in mind that the finished texture will change. As these lentils go soft when cooked, your stew will have a texture similar to oatmeal.
• Canned lentils are also a good choice. Again, you need to adjust the cooking time. While canned lentils won’t absorb the flavors as they cook, they’ll add a nice texture.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto: Replace potatoes with low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini. Opt for coconut oil for cooking and add a splash of coconut cream for richness.
• Paleo: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes and substitute bone broth for vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free: The basic recipe is already gluten-free. Just ensure that the vegetable broth you use is certified gluten-free.
• Whole30: Skip the potatoes and use turnips or sweet potatoes. Make sure the vegetable broth is compliant, or make your own.
• Vegetarian: The recipe is already vegetarian. For extra richness, consider adding a Parmesan rind during simmering (remove before serving).
• Vegan: For extra protein, throw in some cubed tofu or tempeh. Ensure that the broth and other ingredients are 100% plant-based.

Recipe Directions

• Prep Veggies: Chop celery, carrots, garlic, and onion.
• Sauté: In a large pot, sauté these veggies in olive oil for 4-5 minutes.
• Add Ingredients: Add diced potatoes, spices, and herbs. Stir well.
• Rinse Lentils: Briefly rinse lentils under cold water.
• Simmer: Add lentils, vegetable broth, lemon juice, and bay leaves. Simmer for 30-45 minutes.
• Add Spinach: Stir in spinach until wilted.
• Taste Test: Adjust seasoning, perhaps adding more lemon juice.
• Serve: Enjoy as is or with rice or bread.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add cubed tofu or tempeh for extra protein.
• Spicy Twist: Incorporate a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.

Add-Ons

• Grains: Quinoa or brown rice can add more texture and nutrients.
• Legumes: Chickpeas or black beans can make the stew even heartier.
• Veggies: Consider mushrooms for an umami kick or sweet potatoes for a different texture.

Toppings

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds color and freshness.
• Nuts and Seeds: A handful of pumpkin seeds or crushed almonds can add a satisfying crunch.
• Condiments: A dollop of vegan sour cream or a drizzle of tahini can elevate the flavors.

Scaling The Recipe

Scaling this Vegan Lentil Stew recipe is straightforward, thanks to its flexible ingredient list and one-pot cooking method. 

Scale Up

• To scale up, simply double or triple the ingredient quantities and use a larger cooking vessel to accommodate the increased volume. Remember that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure that the lentils and vegetables are fully tender.

Scale Down

• To scale down, halve the ingredient amounts and follow the same cooking steps. In this case, be vigilant about checking the lentils for doneness, as they may cook faster in a smaller quantity. Both versions will retain the essential flavors and textures that make this stew a crowd-pleaser.

What Is Used For Garnishing? 

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, cilantro, or even a sprig of fresh rosemary can add a pop of color and a burst of herbal freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest can echo the lemon juice in the recipe, providing a zesty aroma and flavor boost.
• Vegan Cheese: A sprinkle of vegan Parmesan can lend a cheesy, savory note.
• Chili Flakes: A dash of red chili flakes adds color and heat for those who like spicy.
• Microgreens: A small heap can add visual appeal and a subtly different flavor profile for a gourmet touch.

Can I Make Vegan Lentil Stew In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot? 

Slow Cooker

• Add all ingredients except spinach into the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. 
• Stir in the spinach about 30 minutes before serving to allow it time to wilt.

Instant Pot

• Use the ‘Sauté’ function for the initial sautéing of the vegetables. Add the remaining ingredients except the spinach. Seal the lid and cook on the ‘Manual’ setting at high pressure for 15 minutes. 
• Quick-release the pressure, open the cover, and stir in the spinach until wilted.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own? 

Store-Bought Broth

• This is the more convenient choice, perfect for when you’re short on time. Opt for a low-sodium, organic variety to have more control over the salt and flavor. 
• Make sure to read the label to confirm it’s vegan.

Homemade Broth

• Making your broth allows you to customize the flavor and salt content. It’s a great way to use vegetable scraps like onion peels, carrot tops, and celery leaves, making it a more sustainable choice.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Stew? 

• Meat: Chicken, beef, or even lamb can be added. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is cooked through.
• Fish: White fish like cod or meatier fish like salmon can also be incorporated. Add the fish 15 minutes before the stew is done to avoid overcooking.
• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini can be tossed in. Cook separately and add just before serving to prevent sogginess.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables. Root vegetables like parsnips or seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers can add different textures and flavors.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Stew

• As with any good stew recipe, this vegan lentil stew is adaptable. Try experimenting with different vegetables.
• You can switch the carrots for bell peppers, substitute spinach for kale, or mix white potatoes with sweet potatoes. Each change will bring something new to the dish.
• Rosemary and thyme are best used fresh, but we understand they aren’t always available. Dried can work in their place. Just make sure to adjust the levels.
• For each tablespoon of fresh herbs, you need just under one teaspoon of dried seasoning.
• If you don’t have rosemary and thyme, you can substitute them for a herb blend. Herbs de Provence is an excellent choice.
• Like a touch of heat? A few sprinkles of red pepper flakes won’t alter the dish’s flavor but will add a spicy zing. Cayenne pepper also works well, especially as a pairing for paprika.
• We recommend using dried lentils for this dish. Because they cook in the broth, they absorb the flavors around them.
• If you are using dried lentils, pick over them to remove any grit or shriveled lentils. Rinse them under cold water before adding them to the pot.
• Canned lentils will work in this recipe, they just won’t have the same flavor as dry. Canned lentils don’t take very long to cook (they’re essentially already cooked!), so you can add them later.
• Red and yellow lentils will make a softer stew with a thicker texture.
• You can also thicken the texture by removing a cup of the cooked stew, pureeing it, and stirring the puree back through. If you want it even thicker, puree more of the stew!
• This stew is naturally vegan — that’s one of the reasons we love it! However, if you eat meat, you can increase the protein levels by cooking sausage or bacon alongside the vegetables.
• This stew also makes a good side dish for a meat entree. Try serving it with grilled chicken!

Nutritional Values  

This Vegan Lentil Stew is a nutritional powerhouse packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. It offers a balanced meal that fuels your body while delighting your taste buds.

What Are The Total Calories In The Stew? 

The total calories in Vegan Lentil Stew can vary based on the specific ingredients and serving sizes you use. However, based on the ingredients listed, a rough estimate for a single serving of this dish might range between 250-300 calories. 

This primarily accounts for the lentils, vegetables, olive oil, and broth. Adding optional ingredients like nuts, seeds, or vegan cheese as garnishes will increase the calorie count.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Vegan Lentil Stew 

• Vegan/Vegetarian: The recipe is plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
• Gluten-Free: It does not contain wheat or gluten-based ingredients, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Nut-Free: As long as you don’t add any nut-based garnishes, the stew is nut-free, accommodating those with allergies.
• Low-Fat: The stew is relatively low in fat, mainly depending on olive oil for its fat content.
• Soy-Free: The recipe doesn’t contain soy products, making it safe for those with soy allergies.

Health Benefits Of The Vegan Lentil Stew 

• High Fiber: Lentils and vegetables provide a rich source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
• Protein-Rich: Lentils are an excellent plant-based protein source, essential for muscle repair and overall bodily functions.
• Nutrient-Dense: The medley of vegetables contributes vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium.
• Low Calorie: Despite its hearty nature, the stew is relatively low in calories, making it suitable for weight management.
• Antioxidants: Ingredients like garlic, spinach, and carrots provide antioxidants, which help fight off free radicals and boost immune health.
• Heart-Healthy: The olive oil and vegetable broth are low in saturated fats, promoting heart health.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Vegan Lentil Stew Lower In Sodium? 

• Homemade Broth: Opt for homemade vegetable broth over store-bought varieties. This way, you can control the salt content.
• Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re using store-bought broth, look for versions labeled “low-sodium” or “unsalted.”
• Limit Added Salt: Be cautious when adding salt during cooking. You can always add more at the table if needed.
• Spices and Herbs: Enhance flavor with extra herbs, garlic, or a splash of lemon juice rather than relying solely on salt.
• Rinse Lentils: Although lentils are naturally low in sodium, giving them a good rinse can eliminate any added salt from packaging.

How Can I Make Vegan Lentil Stew Lower In Sugar? 

• Natural Sweeteners: If the recipe calls for added sugars or sweet sauces, replace them with natural, low-glycemic options like stevia or monk fruit.
• Choose Veggies Wisely: Opt for vegetables that are naturally lower in sugar, such as zucchini or green bell peppers, instead of carrots, which contain natural sugars.
• Low-Sugar Broth: Use a homemade or store-bought vegetable broth that doesn’t contain added sugars or sweeteners.
• Spices over Sugar: Flavor your stew with additional herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, or cayenne pepper instead of relying on sweet ingredients to add flavor.
• Read Labels: If using canned or packaged ingredients, always read labels to ensure they don’t contain added sugars.

How To Serve The Vegan Lentil Stew At Its Best? 

• Temperature: Ensure the stew is piping hot but not boiling, as extreme heat can affect its texture and flavor.
• Texture: The stew should be neither too thick nor too watery. A splash of warm vegetable broth can bring it back to the perfect consistency if it has thickened upon standing.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can elevate its visual appeal and add new flavor.
• Accompaniments: Consider serving the stew with crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Bowls: Opt for wide, shallow bowls to showcase the stew’s hearty ingredients.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Vegan Lentil Stew 

The easiest way to serve lentil stew is in a big bowl! Thanks to the potatoes and lentils, this is a hearty meal.

• A side of rice is great for absorbing all the flavors of the broth. We recommend a bowl of simple white rice, but feel free to substitute your favorite grains.
• Or you can mop up all the leftover broth with a chunk of crusty bread. An easy side to prepare, this is perfect for a particularly cold and wet winter day when you want something super comforting.
• Alternatively, you can lighten the meal up with a fresh side salad. Keep the flavors simple and finish with an essential lemon juice and olive oil dressing. This combination is perfect for a spring day.
• If you’re a meat eater, you can serve lentil stew as a side for a meaty main. It would pair particularly well with sausages or grilled chicken! You can also try frying bacon alongside your vegetables.

How Long Can We Store The Stew? 

Vegan lentil stew can be kept in the fridge for around seven days. You can store the leftovers in the pot or transfer them to a sealed container.

When you’re ready to eat, heat a portion on the stovetop until warm. Alternatively, you can quickly heat the stew in the microwave.

Vegan lentil stew also freezes well. Leave the dish to cool completely before freezing. Transfer the stew to a freezer-safe container, seal it, and freeze it. It can be kept frozen for roughly 3 months. Defrost entirely before heating through.

Freezing, defrosting, and reheating the stew are all likely to change the texture slightly. However, this is one of those foods that gets better as the flavors have time to develop. The flavors will become deeper and richer.

Can I Make The Stew In Advance? 

Making Vegan Lentil Stew in advance is an excellent idea for meal planning or hosting events. The flavors meld and deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious a day or two after cooking. 

Prepare the stew according to the recipe and allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for 4-5 days or freeze it for longer-term storage. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in a microwave before serving.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Lentil Tacos: Use the stew as a hearty taco filling, adding avocado, salsa, and vegan cheese for a unique twist.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with the stew. Bake until the peppers are tender.
• Shepherd’s Pie: Use the stew as a base layer and top it with mashed potatoes or cauliflower. Bake until golden.
• Pasta Sauce: Thin the stew and serve it over your favorite pasta or gluten-free alternative.
• Rice Casserole: Mix the stew with cooked rice, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until crispy.
• Fritters: Blend the stew, mix with breadcrumbs, form into patties, and pan-fry.
• Soup: Add more vegetable broth to transform it into a nourishing soup. Add extra spices or herbs for more flavor.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: A quality, heavy-bottomed pot is essential for even cooking and avoiding burnt spots. A Dutch oven or a large stockpot works well.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring the stew without scratching your pot.
• Strainer: Useful for rinsing the lentils and removing impurities.
• Chopping Board and Sharp Knife: A sturdy chopping board and a good chef’s knife make prepping vegetables quicker and safer.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements, especially for spices and liquid components.
• Ladle: For stirring and serving the stew without making a mess.
• Zester or Grater: If using fresh lemon for juice, a zester can also help incorporate lemon zest for extra flavor.
• Storage Containers: Airtight containers are necessary to store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
• Optional Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: If you want to adapt the recipe for these appliances.

Conclusion

Delicious, nutritious, and filling, vegan lentil stew is just what you need when the weather turns cold.

This basic recipe is impressive, but you can customize the ingredients to suit your taste. Try cooking up a big batch! Half can go in the freezer and save the rest for weeknight meals!

What are your favorite winter comfort food dishes?

Frequently Asked Questions 

How Do I Prepare Dried Lentils Before Cooking Them?

You need to pick over and rinse dried lentils before cooking them. Picking over lentils means looking through the lentils for any pieces of grit, small stones, or shriveled lentils.

You can then remove these bits and throw them away. Rinse the lentils under cold water to wash away any dirt clinging to them.

Is Vegan Lentil Stew Healthy?

Lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them an essential part of a balanced vegan diet. With extra nutrients from the vegetables, this lentil stew is a healthy food that’s also filling and comforting.

Do I Need To Soak Lentils?

You don’t need to soak dried lentils before adding them to the stew. They’ll soften up in the broth during the cooking process. Some people prefer to soak lentils, but it’s a personal choice. Just make sure to rinse them before cooking.

Should I Use Canned Lentils Or Dried Lentils?

Canned lentils are convenient, but we recommend dried lentils for stews and soups. They absorb the flavors around them as they cook, which doesn’t happen when you use pre-cooked canned lentils.

However, you can make this stew with canned lentils. Because they cook quickly, you can cut down the entire cooking process or add the lentils closer to the end.

Are Lentils Suitable For Vegans?

Yes, lentils are suitable for vegans! Lentils are plant-based, as they come from the seeds of plants!