Lentil Stew(Low-Fat)
A hearty, low-fat lentil stew packed with vegetables and herbs, offering warm, comforting flavors perfect for healthy, satisfying meals any time of the year.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large kettle or Dutch oven.
- Bring to boiling, then reduce heat.
- Simmer, covered, for 35 to 40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf during cooking and remove it before serving. You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly. If lentils aren't available, split peas can work as an alternative, although cooking times may vary. Adjust the vegetable mix based on what you have on hand, such as adding bell peppers or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty lentil stew with crusty whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of Green Beans Roman Style for added nutrition. For a fresh contrast, consider a simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. This stew also makes a great filling for wraps or pita bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lentil stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil Stew(Low-Fat) contains roughly 382 calories, with 7g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dried beans instead of lentils?
While you can use dried beans, they require a longer cooking time and need to be soaked beforehand. Lentils are preferred for their quick cooking and creamy texture, making them ideal for this stew.
Is this stew suitable for freezing?
Yes, this lentil stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I add meat to this stew?
Absolutely! For a heartier dish, you can add cooked chicken or turkey to the stew. Just stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through. This would complement the flavors without overpowering the lentils.
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).