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Creamy Comforting Crockpot Vegetable & Lentil Stew

Creamy Comforting Crockpot Vegetable & Lentil Stew Bliss

This creamy comforting crockpot vegetable & lentil stew is a warm and nourishing vegan dish that's packed with fiber-rich lentils and vibrant veggies.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 1 cup green or brown lentils Main protein source, adds heartiness; you can substitute with red lentils for a creamier texture.
  • 4 cups vegetable broth Ensure the broth is gluten-free if necessary.
  • 2 medium carrots, diced Adds sweetness and texture; swap with parsnips for a different flavor.
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced Provides creaminess and body; can opt for sweet potatoes for added sweetness.
  • 1 cup celery, diced Offers crunch and flavor depth; can be omitted if not available.
  • 1 cup onion, diced Aromatic base flavor; use shallots as an alternative for a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the flavor profile; adjust quantity to taste as desired.
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) Adds acidity and moisture; switch to tomato paste for a richer flavor.
  • 1 cup coconut milk (canned) Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness; substitute with almond or oat milk for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Herb for flavoring; fresh thyme can be used if available.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil Complements the dish's herbal notes; Italian seasoning can be a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds warmth and depth; use regular paprika for a non-smoky flavor.
  • Salt and pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your preference.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing onions and garlic; any vegetable oil can replace it.
  • 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped (optional) Adds nutrition and color; feel free to use any dark leafy greens.
  • Fresh parsley For garnish; optional but recommended for a touch of freshness.

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Skillet
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
  2. Once the onions are translucent, stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until it's fragrant and slightly golden.
  3. Pour the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the crockpot. Then, add 1 cup of green or brown lentils, 2 diced medium carrots, 2 diced medium potatoes, and 1 cup of diced celery. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Next, pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and add 1 cup of diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme, dried basil, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
  6. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in 1 cup of coconut milk and 1 cup of chopped spinach or kale, if using.
  7. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 760mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 12gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Rinse lentils before cooking to remove debris and ensure a smooth texture. For a thicker stew, mash some lentils or potatoes against the crockpot's side before serving.

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