Get Started
To begin, you'll need some key ingredients. Gather 150g of celery, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 450g of peeled and cubed Maris Piper potatoes, 3 cubed carrots,
1 leek (cut into small chunks), 1 finely chopped garlic clove, 2 finely chopped onions, 1 liter of vegetable stock, 250g of rinsed and drained dried green lentils, 1 tablespoon of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of red wine vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. Ensure you have all the necessary items at hand before proceeding to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. These ingredients, when combined, will yield a tasty and nutritious vegetarian lentil stew, ideal for a comforting meal.
Prep the Veggies
The first step involves prepping the vegetables. Begin by removing the strings from the bottom ends of the celery and finely chopping it. In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the celery, potatoes, carrots, leek, garlic, and onions to the heated oil. Cook these vegetables gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until they start to soften. This initial sautéing process helps to enhance the flavors of the vegetables, setting a solid foundation for the stew's overall taste. Remember to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Stew Time!
Once the vegetables have softened, it's time to add the remaining ingredients. Pour in the vegetable stock and stir in the lentils and curry powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for approximately 30 minutes. The simmering process allows the lentils to become tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully. Keep a watchful eye during this phase and stir occasionally to avoid any sticking at the bottom of the saucepan. The stew is nearly ready once the lentils have softened.
Season & Serve
After the lentils are tender, it's time to season the stew. Taste the stew and season it with red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, ensuring the stew has the desired taste profile. Finally, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the stew just before serving to add a touch of freshness and visual appeal. This step not only enhances the taste but also provides a vibrant finish to the delicious and comforting vegetarian lentil stew.
