Created on November 29th, 2025 at 10:50 am
A comforting dish packed with flavor and warmth
Hearty lentil stew paired with creamy mashed potatoes creates a comforting bowl that’s perfect for cooler days. This recipe showcases the earthiness of lentils, complemented by savory vegetables and aromatic herbs. The natural sweetness of the carrots and the hearty texture of the lentils come together to form a rich, satisfying stew. Topped with a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes, each bite feels like a warm embrace. As the lentils simmer, inviting aromas fill your kitchen, creating an atmosphere that feels like home. This dish is not just about nourishment; it’s about creating a moment where you can slow down and enjoy something uncomplicated yet deeply satisfying.
Making this stew is straightforward, and the ingredients are easily accessible. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe simple to follow. It’s nourishing enough for a cozy family dinner, and yet uncomplicated enough to prepare on a busy weeknight. The combination of flavors is substantial yet comforting, making this bowl a standout in any meal rotation.
What Makes This Dish Special
This hearty lentil stew stands out not only for its flavor but also for its versatility and ease of preparation. Lentils are nutrient-dense, packed with protein and fiber, providing a wholesome base that makes this dish particularly satisfying. They absorb flavors beautifully, lending a depth to the stew that evolves as it simmers. The vegetables add color and texture, creating a delightful contrast between the tender lentils and the creamy mashed potatoes.
While the stew simmers away, the mashed potatoes can be prepared with minimal effort. The combination of buttery, smooth potatoes with the robust stew results in a comforting bowl that is perfect for colder weather. Leftovers can be stored easily, making this dish perfect for lunch the next day. It retains its flavor well and only gets better as the ingredients meld overnight, giving you a delicious and filling meal once again.
Time Breakdown
This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for busy days. Most of the time is spent letting the stew simmer gently while you prep the potatoes.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients List
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 tablespoons butter (for mashed potatoes)
- ½ cup milk (for mashed potatoes)
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Tools
For a stress-free cooking experience, gather these essential tools before starting. They streamline the process and keep everything organized.
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Potato masher
- Medium saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. The aroma will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Stir in the rinsed lentils, cumin, and thyme. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the stew to simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
While the stew cooks, prepare the mashed potatoes. Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan.
Add butter and milk to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk for your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper. The comforting aroma of creamy mashed potatoes adds to the warmth of the meal.
Once the lentils are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning of the stew. Serve the lentil stew in bowls, topped with a generous scoop of the creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Pro Tips
- For added depth, consider using homemade vegetable broth.
- If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables.
- To save time, boil the potatoes while the stew simmers.
- This dish freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.
- Experiment with additional vegetables, like spinach or kale, for added nutrition.
A Bowl of Comfort
This hearty lentil stew with creamy mashed potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a flavorful way. The combination provides warmth and nourishment, perfect for sharing with family or savoring on your own. Ideal for chilly evenings or busy days, it’s a reminder that comfort food can be made quickly and without fuss. Keep this recipe close for the days when you want something delicious without much effort.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Protein | 17 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 59 g |
| Fiber | 16 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Hearty Lentil Stew & Creamy Mashed Potato Bowl
Ingredients
For the Hearty Lentil Stew
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 tablespoons butter for mashed potatoes
- ½ cup milk for mashed potatoes
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the rinsed lentils, cumin, and thyme. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the stew to simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Mashed Potatoes
- While the stew cooks, prepare the mashed potatoes. Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the saucepan.
- Add butter and milk to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk for your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
Serving
- Once the lentils are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning of the stew. Serve the lentil stew in bowls, topped with a generous scoop of the creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
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