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Weeknight • Vegetarian

Quick Chickpea and Lentil Stew

A hearty, spiced vegetarian stew brimming with chickpeas, lentils, and flavorful vegetables.

Prep
10 min
Cook
25 min
Servings
4
Level
Weeknight
Quick Chickpea and Lentil Stew

Warm up with a bowl of this incredibly satisfying Quick Chickpea and Lentil Stew! It's a delicious, plant-based power-house that's packed with flavor, thanks to a beautiful blend of spices and tender veggies. Perfect for a cozy weeknight and incredibly budget-friendly, this stew proves that healthy meals can be both simple and utterly delicious. It also tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup dried red or brown lentils, rinsed well
  • 2 cups baby spinach or kale
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Stir in minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Step 3

    Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, rinsed chickpeas, and rinsed lentils. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

  4. Step 4

    Stir in the baby spinach or kale until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.

  5. Step 5

    Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Tips

  • Red lentils cook faster and break down more, creating a thicker stew. Brown or green lentils will hold their shape better.
  • Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
  • This stew freezes beautifully for easy meal prep!

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