Lentil-Barley Stew
A hearty, comforting lentil and barley stew infused with savory tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables, perfect for wholesome meals and suitable for vegetarians and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute margarine, chopped onion, and chopped celery in a large pan.
- Add water and lentils; cook for 20 minutes.
- Add canned tomatoes, barley, salt, pepper, rosemary, and garlic salt; simmer for 45 to 60 minutes until barley is tender.
- Add shredded carrots and cook for an additional five minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier stew, consider adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes. If you don't have barley, quinoa or farro can be excellent substitutes. For a vegan version, simply use olive oil instead of margarine. Adjust the spices to your taste; a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile. Be sure to rinse the lentils before cooking to remove any debris.
Serving Suggestions
This Lentil-Barley Stew pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it alongside Confetti Corn Salad for a colorful, nutritious meal. For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top before serving. A dollop of sour cream or yogurt can also add creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. This stew also freezes well for up to three months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil-Barley Stew contains roughly 671 calories, with 18g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (207% of the Daily Value), iron (143% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (136% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of lentils in this recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of lentils, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Green or black lentils can work well, but red lentils will cook faster and may become mushy, altering the stew's texture.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this stew in a slow cooker, sauté the margarine, onion, and celery first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the barley and lentils are tender.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If your stew is too thick, simply add more water or vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).