Smoky Lentil and Andouille Stew

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
• 8 oz andouille sausage, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper(optional)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 2 green onions, sliced(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Brown sausage slices, about 4 minutes, then remove.

2. 2

   Add onion, celery, and bell pepper; cook until softened, 5-6 minutes. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne; cook 1 minute.

3. 3

   Add lentils, tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, and browned sausage. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

4. 4

   Cover and simmer 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender, adding water if needed.

5. 5

   Season with salt, remove bay leaf, and top with green onions before serving.