01 -
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 large yellow onion, 2 medium carrots, and 2 stalks celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. This forms the flavorful base for your Hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew with 18g Protein.
02 -
Add 4 cloves minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1 lb sliced cremini mushrooms. Increase heat slightly and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and started to brown.
03 -
Stir in 1 1/2 cups rinsed brown or green lentils, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the lentils and deepen the flavors.
04 -
Pour in 6 cups vegetable broth and add 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained) along with 2 bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer.
05 -
Continue to simmer the stew for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the stew has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed for your Hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew with 18g Protein.
06 -
Remove and discard the 2 bay leaves. Ladle the warm Hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew with 18g Protein into bowls. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley before serving. For best flavor, let it rest for a few minutes off the heat.