Jacob’s Lentil Stew
The ultimate comfort food, Jacob’s Lentil Stew is a hearty blend of lentils, vegetables, and spices that warms the heart. Packed with nutrients and flavor, this easy weeknight dinner will surely be a hit at your table. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Chef's Knife
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Saucepan
- Peeler
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped cilantro divided
- 3 units carrots
- 3 units celery stalks including leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion diced
- 1 clove garlic crushed
- 2 cups dry red lentils
- 1/4 cup pearl barley omit to make gluten free
- 2 quarts chicken stock (or use vegetable stock to make vegan)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon hyssop or parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon sumac (optional)
- 1 unit bay leaf
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Roughly chop the cilantro. Set aside half for garnishing later.
- Scrub the carrots, then cut them into chunks, leaving the skin on for added nutrients.
- Cut celery into chunks, including leaves. Reserve everything together.
- In a medium-sized soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté till translucent.
- Add garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the reserved carrots and celery. Continue to sauté until the onion turns golden.
- Add the dry red lentils and pearl barley to the pot. Stir well.
- Pour in the chicken stock to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Add the chopped cilantro, cumin, hyssop, and bay leaf. Stir everything together.
- Cover the pot and let the stew simmer slowly for one and a half to two hours, stirring every thirty minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf and garnish the stew with the remaining cilantro. Serve hot.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Freezing: Yes, this stew freezes beautifully! Portion it into containers and freeze for up to three months.
- Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to your stew.
- Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like potatoes or spinach for added nutrition!