Smoky Lentil and Vegetable Stew

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils
• 2 medium carrots
• 2 stalks celery
• 1 medium onion
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 medium potatoes
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 leaves bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.

2. 2

   Dice the onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes into small, even pieces.

3. 3

   In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

4. 4

   Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.

5. 5

   Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

6. 6

   Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. 7

   Add the rinsed lentils, smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.

8. 8

   Pour in the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with juice). Bring to a boil.

9. 9

   Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until lentils and vegetables are tender.

10. 10

    Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning if necessary. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

11. 11

    Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.