Sun Dried Tomato Lentil Stew

What’s in this Lentil Stew:

Lentils. It wouldn’t be a lentil stew without them! In my recipe, I use green lentils however you can use whatever type of lentil you have on hand. Just keep in mind the differences in cook time if you use a different type. Green lentils typically take 30-35 minutes to cook. Brown lentils are very similar in cook time. Red lentils on the other hand, are sold “split” and with the skin removed so the cook time is significantly less. Roughly 10-20 minutes. You can also substitute the lentils with any grain such as farro or orzo. 

Full Fat Coconut Milk. This is what makes the dish so creamy and delicious. You can substitute for a lower fat coconut milk, but I prefer the texture of the full fat.

Vegetable Broth. This makes up the base of the dish and can be substituted with chicken broth if you do not want to keep this dish vegetarian/vegan.

Sun Dried Tomatoes. This is where the flavor comes from. It is important that you use sun dried tomatoes from a can preserved in oil such as this  one versus a dry and packaged one (similar to raisins and other dried fruit.) We will be using some of the oil from the can to help flavor the dish.

White Wine. A warming and heavy dish like this can always benefit from a splash of acid. Here I am choosing to use white wine, preferably chardonnay.

Garlic. Because what dish is complete without garlic?

Dried Chilies. This is optional, but I always prefer my meals to pack a punch so I highly recommend using. I used dried Chiles de Arbol that I had on hand, but any Chile will work here. You can add as many or as few as you’d like, but to make sure it doesn’t get too spicy, I wouldn’t open the Chile and let the seeds out. 

Herbs. In my opinion, every dish is better with a bit of fresh herbs. In this dish, I used thyme, but basil or oregano would also be nice.

Tips and Tricks for this Lentil Stew

Once you lentils come to a boil, Turn down the heat to low. If you cook your lentils at a rolling boil for too long, they will end up breaking and you will be left with a mushy dish. Cover and let simmer until cooked through.

Lentils Nutrition

Lentils are incredible good for you, and a great protein choice for those who follow plant-based diets. All types of lentils are an excellent source of B vitamins, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. 1 Cup of green lentils has roughly 280 calories and a whopping 24 grams of protein!