Smoky Tomato-Spiced Lentil Stew

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Red lentils (dry)
• 1 cup Crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 medium Onion
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 tsp Smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp Ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp Chili flakes (or chili powder)
• 2 cups Vegetable broth (or water)
• 1/4 tsp Salt(optional)
• 1/8 tsp Black pepper(optional)
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (10 minutes): Rinse the red lentils. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

2. 2

   Cook (25 minutes): Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic for 30 seconds.

3. 3

   Add spices: Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, and chili flakes for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. 4

   Simmer: Add crushed tomatoes, lentils, and broth. Bring to a simmer, then cook 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft and the stew is thick.

5. 5

   Finish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in lemon juice if using, then serve hot.