High Protein Lentil Stew with Creamy Mashed Potatoes (Print Version)
Hearty high protein lentil stew simmered with vegetables, served over creamy mashed potatoes. A satisfying, nutritious meal perfect for any weeknight.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 40 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Rustic
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Stew Base
01 -
1 1/2 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed
02 -
6 cups vegetable broth
03 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
04 -
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
05 -
2 stalks celery, diced
→ Aromatic Foundation
06 -
2 tbsp olive oil
07 -
1 large yellow onion, diced
08 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
09 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
10 -
1 tsp dried thyme
11 -
1 bay leaf
→ Creamy Potato Cloud
12 -
2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
13 -
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
14 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
15 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Flavor Enhancers & Garnish
16 -
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
17 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 large yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 4 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tsp dried thyme, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
02 -
Add 1 1/2 cups rinsed brown or green lentils, 6 cups vegetable broth, 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained), 2 medium carrots, diced, 2 stalks celery, diced, and 1 bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes to form the base of your Comforting High Protein Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes.
03 -
While the stew simmers, place 2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered, in a large pot. Cover with cold water by an inch and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
04 -
Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly. Return them to the hot pot. Add 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk and 2 tbsp unsalted butter. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
05 -
After 30 minutes, check the lentils for tenderness. If needed, continue simmering until tender. Stir in 1 tbsp red wine vinegar. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Season the Comforting High Protein Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes with salt and black pepper to taste.
06 -
Ladle a generous portion of the rich lentil stew over a bed of the creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish each serving of your Comforting High Protein Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for a burst of freshness.
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to substitute brown or green lentils with red lentils for a slightly quicker cook time and creamier texture, though they will break down more.
02 -
Store leftover stew and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
For an extra layer of flavor in your stew, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the aromatics for a subtle kick, or a splash of tamari for umami.
04 -
This hearty dish is excellent on its own, but a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad would complement it beautifully.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Potato peeler
05 -
Potato masher
06 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 422 kcal
Total Fat: 9 g
Total Carbohydrate: 68 g
Protein: 18 g