Lentil Stew with Mashed Potatoes

Name: Lentil Stew with Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

This hearty Lentil Stew paired with creamy mashed potatoes is a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T20:30:03.216Z

This Lentil Stew with Mashed Potatoes is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The stew is rich in nutrients and packed with protein, making it a satisfying option for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious lentils offer a hearty and filling base
Creamy mashed potatoes add a comforting touch
Perfect for meal prep and easy to make ahead
Great for chilly evenings or family gatherings

      

A Hearty and Wholesome Dish

Lentil stew is a fantastic way to incorporate plant-based protein into your diet. Lentils are not only filling but also packed with essential nutrients such as iron, fiber, and B vitamins. This stew is perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying a delicious meal. The combination of lentils and vegetables creates a rich flavor profile that satisfies both the palate and the stomach.

Pairing lentil stew with creamy mashed potatoes elevates this dish to a new level of comfort food. The fluffy texture of the mashed potatoes complements the hearty stew, making each bite a delightful experience. This meal is perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something warm and nourishing.

Versatile and Meal-Prep Friendly

One of the best aspects of this lentil stew with mashed potatoes is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to include your favorite seasonal vegetables or spices. Feel free to experiment with different types of lentils or even add some leafy greens for an extra nutrient boost. The possibilities are endless, making it a fantastic dish for culinary creativity.

This recipe is also an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. Both the lentil stew and mashed potatoes can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. Simply reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy a wholesome meal without the fuss. It’s a great way to ensure you have nutritious options readily available throughout the week.

Ingredients for Lentil Stew

For the Lentil Stew

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
4 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mashed Potatoes

4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Method

Prepare the Lentil Stew

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the stew is simmering, boil the potatoes in a separate pot until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Once the lentil stew is ready, serve it hot with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on the side. Enjoy!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Tips for Perfect Lentil Stew

To achieve the best flavor in your lentil stew, don’t skip the sautéing step. Cooking the onions, carrots, and celery until they are soft releases their natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base for your stew. Additionally, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness and acidity.

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can blend a portion of the lentils after they have cooked. This will give the stew a creamy texture while still retaining the hearty lentil pieces. Alternatively, adjusting the amount of vegetable broth will also help you achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This lentil stew with mashed potatoes can be enjoyed on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stew. If you want to add a bit of crunch, consider topping your stew with some toasted nuts or seeds.

For an extra layer of flavor, serve the stew with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also add freshness and brightness to the dish, making each serving even more delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, you can use red or black lentils, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! The stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for potatoes in the mash?

You can use cauliflower for a lower-carb option, or sweet potatoes for a different flavor.