Craving a hearty and healthy slow cooker dinner recipe that practically makes itself? This Slow Cooker Vegetarian Lentil Stew is incredibly flavorful and perfect for a cozy meal, making dinner prep a breeze. You’ll love how easily this satisfying stew comes together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Lentils: Brown or green lentils work best; red lentils can get too mushy.
- Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium is a great choice.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Fire-roasted varieties add extra depth.
- Spices: Smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky flavor. You can adjust the heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped (optional)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 4-8 hours
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-7 hours on high, 6-10 hours on low
- Servings: 6
- Tools Needed: Slow cooker (6-quart or larger), cutting board, knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), dried thyme, smoked paprika, ground cumin, black pepper, and bay leaf. Stir everything together gently to combine.
3. Cook the Stew
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the lentils are tender and the stew has thickened. The exact timing can vary with different slow cooker dinner recipes, so check for tenderness.
4. Finish and Season
Once cooked, remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh spinach, if using, until it wilts. Taste the stew and season with salt as needed. Serve warm as a delicious slow cooker dinner.
Variation Ideas
- Add diced sweet potato or butternut squash along with the other vegetables for extra sweetness and nutrients.
- Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste with the diced tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- Top with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
- Include a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for added protein and texture.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Slow Cooker Vegetarian Lentil Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, gently warm portions on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of vegetable broth if the stew has thickened too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put raw lentils in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can absolutely put raw, rinsed lentils directly into your slow cooker. They will soften and cook perfectly with the other ingredients.
Do you have to soak lentils before slow cooking?
No, you do not need to soak lentils before adding them to your slow cooker. Just make sure to rinse them well.
Can I freeze this lentil stew?
Yes, this stew freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What kind of lentils are best for stew?
Brown or green lentils hold their shape well and are ideal for a hearty stew. Red lentils tend to break down and become very soft, which might not be the texture you’re looking for in this slow cooker dinner recipe.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
Absolutely! This Slow Cooker Vegetarian Lentil Stew is an excellent slow cooker dinner recipe for meal prepping. It reheats well and provides several nutritious meals throughout the week.
Can I make this stew thicker?
If your stew is thinner than you prefer, you can mash some of the cooked lentils against the side of the slow cooker with the back of a spoon, or let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce slightly.