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Slow Cooker Lentil Stew

This hearty lentil stew is cooked slowly in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to deepen and the ingredients to soften into a comforting, thick broth. Main ingredients include earthy brown lentils, sweet carrots, and smoky tomato broth, resulting in a tender, rustic dish with a rich aroma and velvety texture. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a nourishing meal with minimal fuss.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups brown lentils rinsed
  • 2 large carrots chopped into small cubes
  • 1 large yellow onion diced finely
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 14 oz canned fire-roasted tomatoes with juices
  • 4 cups vegetable broth store-bought or homemade
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cup

Method
 

  1. Start by rinsing the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, then set aside.
  2. Chop the carrots into small, uniform cubes to ensure they cook evenly, and dice the onion finely for a mellow sweetness.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, then add the diced onions and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the carrots start to soften, releasing a sweet aroma.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Transfer the sautéed vegetables and garlic into your crockpot, then add the rinsed lentils, canned tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  6. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon to evenly distribute the spices and ingredients, then cover with the lid.
  7. Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours. During the first couple of hours, check occasionally to ensure the liquid level stays just below the ingredients, adding a splash of broth if needed.
  8. After the cooking time, test a lentil by piercing it with a fork; it should be tender but not mushy. The broth should have thickened slightly and filled your kitchen with smoky, tomato-y aromas.
  9. If the stew is too thick, stir in a little warm broth to loosen it; if it’s too thin, cook uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes to reduce and thicken.
  10. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed. Let it rest off the heat for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  11. Serve the hearty lentil stew hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors developed through slow cooking.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, add a small piece of smoked wood chip during cooking or sprinkle more smoked paprika at the end. This stew tastes even better the next day, so make it ahead for an even richer experience.