Smoky North African Spicy Lentil Stew

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Lentils (red or brown), rinsed
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/2 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Ground cumin
• 1 tsp Smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp Harissa paste
• 1 tbsp Tomato paste
• 1 cup Crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups Vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp Salt(optional)
• 1/8 tsp Black pepper(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (10 minutes): Rinse lentils. Chop onion and mince garlic.

2. 2

   In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion for 4–5 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic for 30 seconds.

3. 3

   Add cumin, smoked paprika, harissa, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring to coat the aromatics.

4. 4

   Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and the stew thickens.

5. 5

   Finish: Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot.