Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew (Printable Version)

Savory lentils and mushrooms combined with fresh vegetables create a warm, nourishing stew perfect for any meal.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Legumes

01 - 200 grams dried green or brown lentils, rinsed

→ Vegetables

02 - 225 grams cremini mushrooms, sliced
03 - 1 large onion, diced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 medium carrots, chopped
06 - 2 celery stalks, chopped
07 - 410 grams diced tomatoes, canned
08 - Optional: fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

→ Liquids

09 - 950 milliliters vegetable broth

→ Oils and Condiments

10 - 30 milliliters olive oil
11 - 15 grams tomato paste

→ Spices and Herbs

12 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
13 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1 bay leaf
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Guide to Cooking:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
02 - Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Continue cooking for 5 minutes until mushrooms release moisture and start to brown.
03 - Stir in tomato paste, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavors.
04 - Add rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with juices, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
05 - Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Optionally, stir in chopped leafy greens and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
06 - Ladle stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Optional additions include 1 cup chopped kale or spinach, diced potatoes, or a splash of red wine for depth.
02 - Adjust seasoning to personal preference for salt and pepper.