Lentil stew

Lentil Stew - A Hearty and Comforting Delicacy

Lentil stew is one of those recipes that combines tradition with delicious flavor, offering a hearty and nutrient-rich meal. This recipe is perfect for chilly days or when we crave comfort through a warm meal. Lentils, a staple ingredient in many cultures, are rich in protein and fiber, making this dish an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Let's discover together the steps to prepare a delicious lentil stew that will bring smiles to the faces of our loved ones.

Number of servings: 4-6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes

Necessary ingredients:
- 600-700 g lean pork (choose shoulder or leg for a richer taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil (for a more intense flavor, sunflower oil can also be used)
- 300 g lentils (preferably green or brown lentils for better texture)
- 1 liter of water (or more, depending on the desired consistency)
- 2 red onions (provides a sweet taste)
- 2 carrots (adds a note of sweetness)
- 200 ml tomato juice (or fresh pureed tomatoes for a more natural taste)
- 2 tablespoons roasted pepper paste (for added flavor)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (to thicken the stew, optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh thyme (a few sprigs for aroma)
- 2-3 bay leaves (for a more complex flavor)
- Fresh parsley (for decoration)

Preparing the lentil stew:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork well under cold running water. Dry it with a kitchen towel and slice it thinly. This step helps the meat cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the stew.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pan or deep pot, add 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Olive oil adds a pleasant taste, but you can opt for your preferred oil.

3. Cooking the meat: Add the slices of meat to the hot oil and let them brown well on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This will help develop the flavors and provide a pleasant texture.

4. Adding the vegetables: When the meat is browned, add the finely chopped onion and let it sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Follow with the sliced carrots, which will add sweetness and color.

5. Lentils and spices: Rinse the lentils in several waters to remove impurities. Add the lentils to the pot along with the roasted pepper paste, water, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.

6. Tomato juice: When the lentils are nearly cooked, add the tomato juice. If you want a thinner consistency, gradually add boiled water until you reach the desired consistency.

7. Adjusting the taste: After the lentils are well cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves.

8. Thickening the stew (optional): If you want a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with a little water or tomato juice, then pour it into the pot. Let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens.

9. Finalizing: Turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley, which will provide a final touch of freshness.

Serving and suggestions:
The lentil stew is served with pickles, which perfectly balance the rich flavors of the dish. You can accompany it with fresh homemade bread or a crunchy green salad for a complete lunch or dinner.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned lentils?
It is not recommended as fresh lentils have a better texture and flavor. If using canned lentils, reduce the cooking time for the vegetables.

2. How can I make the stew vegetarian?
You can omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to maintain the rich flavor.

3. What other spices can I use?
You can experiment with spices like sweet or hot paprika, cumin, or coriander to add a personalized touch to the stew.

Nutritional benefits:
Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and B vitamins. Consuming lentils helps maintain digestive health and control blood sugar levels, making them ideal for a balanced diet.

Possible variations:
Add a few slices of bell pepper to enhance the colors, or sprinkle a splash of lemon juice before serving to accentuate the flavors. You can also add spices like turmeric or curry for a dish with an exotic flavor.

This lentil stew recipe will not only add health benefits to your diet but will also be a culinary pleasure that you will want to repeat. Enjoy your meal!