Are you craving a hearty, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying meal that will warm your soul and nourish your body? Look no further than this amazing Brown Rice and Lentil Stew! Packed with protein, fiber, and a symphony of delicious flavors, this vegetarian masterpiece is about to become your new favorite go-to recipe. In just about an hour, you'll create a comforting dish that proves healthy eating can be both delicious and exciting.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of brown rice, 1 cup of lentils, 1 chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the brown rice and lentils under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This will help remove any dirt or impurities. Set aside to drain.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the rinsed brown rice and lentils, followed by the cumin. Mix well to combine all the ingredients and allow the spices to toast slightly for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the stew simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the brown rice and lentils are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- After the cooking time is complete, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If the stew is too thick, you can add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Brown Rice and Lentil Stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious meal!
Tips
- Rinse Your Grains Thoroughly: Always rinse brown rice and lentils to remove excess starch and any potential debris, ensuring a cleaner taste and better texture.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing onions, garlic, and vegetables. This builds a rich flavor foundation for your entire stew.
- Toast Your Spices: When you add cumin, take a moment to toast it slightly in the pot. This releases deeper, more complex flavors.
- Watch Your Liquid Ratio: If the stew becomes too thick, don't hesitate to add a little more vegetable broth. The perfect consistency is key to a great stew.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together, making each bite more delicious.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
