Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew

This hearty lentil and vegetable stew is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cold winter day. The lentils are cooked in a flavorful vegetable broth and combined with a variety of vegetables, including carrots, celery, potatoes, and peas. The stew is seasoned with dried thyme and is simmered until the lentils are tender and the vegetables are cooked through. This stew is a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, and it is sure to warm you up on a cold day.

This recipe has been passed down through my family for generations. My great-grandmother used to make this stew for her family on cold winter nights. She would often add whatever vegetables she had on hand, so the recipe has always been a bit flexible. I've added a few of my own touches to the recipe over the years, but the basic ingredients and cooking method have remained the same. This stew is a reminder of my family's history and a way to keep my great-grandmother's memory alive.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery sticks, chopped
• 1 potato, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils and pick over them to remove any debris.
2. In a large pot, combine the lentils, vegetable broth, onion, carrots, celery, potato, peas, and thyme.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve warm.

Why It Works

• The lentils provide a hearty and filling base for the stew.
• The vegetables add flavor, texture, and nutrients to the stew.
• The vegetable broth adds flavor and depth to the stew.
• The dried thyme adds a subtle and earthy flavor to the stew.
• Simmering the stew for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the lentils to become tender.