This Lentil Stew is a hearty, nourishing meal packed with vegetables, tender lentils, and savory herbs that come together in one comforting pot. It's simple to make, satisfying, and perfect for cozy evenings or easy meal prep.
I've always loved lentil dishes for their versatility. They soak up flavor beautifully and make a great base for either a vegetarian d inner or something heartier with sausage or ham. My mom used to make Spiced Lentil Soup often during the colder months, and this stew version brings back that same warmth and comfort with a little extra richness.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty comfort: every spoonful is warm, thick and satisfying
Easy to make: simple ingredients and minimal prep mean dinner is on the table with ease.
Versatile Meal: keep it meatless or add protein like sausage or ham for a twist.
Key Ingredients for Lentil Stew
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.
- Lentils: the star of the dish, providing protein and a rich, earthy flavor.
- Vegetable broth: adds depth while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
- Carrots, celery, and onion: the classic aromatic trio for flavor and texture.
- Diced tomatoes: brings brightness and natural sweetness.
- Garlic and herbs: fresh garlic, oregano, basil, and bayleaf give this stew its cozy, seasoned flavor.
- Olive oil: helps saute the veggies for a rich, smooth base.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Chicken broth or beef broth can replace vegetable broth.
- Green or brown lentils work best, but red lentils will make the stew softer and creamier.
- Ham or sausage can be stirred in near the end for extra richness.
Variations on Lentil Stew
- Smoky Lentil Stew: add a little smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
- Mediterranean Lentil Stew: stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
- Coconut Curry Lentil Stew: swap part of the broth for coconut milk and add curry powder for a creamy, lightly spiced treat.
Tips for the Best Lentil Stew
- Rinse lentils well before cooking to remove any debris.
- Simmer slowly to allow the flavors to meld and the lentils to become tender.
- Adjust thickness by adding more broth for soupier stew or letting it simmer longer to thicken.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to loosen it up.
Serve With...
Serve this comforting stew topped with a handful of Homemade Croutons, or a slice of toasted English Muffin Bread. It also pairs nicely with a fresh simple tossed salad with homemade ranch dressing, or a slice of honey wheat bread.
More Easy Soup and Stew Recipes You'll Love
If you enjoy this lentil stew, try my Instant Pot Venison Stew with Sweet Potatoes, Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup, Green Bean Soup, and Hamburger Soup. Each one is warm, comforting, and full of flavor.
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Lentil Stew
Equipment
- Large soup pot , or Dutch oven
- Chef's knife
- Wooden sposon
- Instant Pot (optional)
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Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high until hot. Add the carrot, celery, onion, and garlic, and saute for 4 minutes, or until vegetables have begun to soften.
- Stir in the lentils, water, vegetable broth, and tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, until lentils are cooked and the broth has reduced.
Pierrette says
Made a variation of this for lunch, removed the tomatoes and doubled the basil - it was oh so good definitely a keeper for my recipe book.
Sam Sotiropoulos says
Lentil soup is a staple in Greek food culture, has been since the most ancient times. It is an excellent winter comfort food and now I am going to make some for lunch today! 🙂
Anonymous says
I adore lentils but unfortunately my guys get all freaky! I have an awesome lentil burrito recipe that is "wet" and baked but alas, they are duds.
Thanks for this yummy looking post Shelby,
Jam
Mrs Ergül says
another recipe that features pulses! bookmarked! thanks for sharing!
Kevin says
That sounds simple and good, not to mention healthy!
pinkstripes says
Lentil soup is one of my favorite winter treats. This stew looks delicious...thanks for sharing!
Mari at Once Upon a Plate says
Yuuum. I love lentils and your recipe looks exceptional! Thank you for sharing. 🙂
Hillary says
I've been looking for a good lentil soup recipe! I will have to try this one out. Thanks in advance!
Susie says
Lentils... yum. They always remind me of my grandma - she loved lentil soup and lentil patties! 🙂
JyLnC says
I've never had lentils unless they have been in a dish and I wasn't aware of it. Soups are a favorite with my husband and I. I'm going to link to this and try it this winter. Of course, I have to buy some lentils first. :>)
Kaitlin says
That looks so good. I agree, probably better meat-less!
Jenny says
Mmm, I bet it's wonderful Shelby! Looks fantastic.
Laura says
Your Grumpy cracks me up! 🙂
5 Star Foodie says
Looks wonderful for any kind of weather!
♥Reeni says
My Dad would say the same thing if I made this. It looks perfect for staying in, warm, delicious and comforting!
noble pig says
Yum, I'll have to try this one on my husband, he would probably ask for the meat too!
Creative One says
Never tried lentils before. The soup looks delish.
WiseAcre says
Lentil stew sounds just about perfect to combat the cold around here. I've checked the pantry and we seem to be out of lentils but I did find peas. Guess what I'm going to eat later today.
Tangled Noodle says
Just in time - I was staring hungrily at the bag of lentils in my pantry!
Carrie says
Yum! This looks great! I love lentil soup!
Tina says
Yuuum! Sounds like a great lentil soup recipe!
Daily Spud says
Just perfect for this time of year and this type of weather. Lentils make their way into a lot of my soups (and into a lot of my diet in general) - I'm a big fan.
Meg says
I really need to try some lentils. This looks fantastic!
recipes2share says
This looks great - it is so cold here & Paris just isn't set up for this weather - even my washing machine has frozen shut in the garage!!
Annie says
Yum! Perfect winter food - too bad it is summer here! I love finding different recipes for lentil soup, this is really different from the one I grew up with but looks delicious and really easy too!
Cristine says
Looks and sounds yummy! Stay warm and have fun bugging Grumpy! 🙂
tamilyn says
Maybe he should have made the soup if he wanted ham in it! Cook's decisions rule 🙂
shellyfish says
I just love lentil soups & stews! They are so easy, and nutritious - and perfect for this freezing weather!
Amira says
oooh yummy i love lentils, looks fantstic!
Barbara Bakes says
I don't think I've ever had lentils. I've always been sort of a baby about trying new things until lately!