Looking for a hearty and flavorful stew to warm your soul on a chilly evening? This Lebanese-inspired recipe for Lentil and Spinach Stew is the perfect blend of comforting ingredients and rich spices that will transport you to cozy evenings in the Mediterranean. This dish is packed with protein-rich lentils, nutrient-dense spinach, and aromatic Middle Eastern spices that will surely delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into the recipe to create a delicious and wholesome meal for your family and friends.
Lebanese Lentil And Spinach Stew
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir well and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, including their juices, and let the stew simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pot and stir until wilted. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Once the spinach is wilted and the flavors have melded, remove the pot from heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve the Lebanese Lentil and Spinach Stew hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. This stew pairs beautifully with warm pita bread or over a bed of fluffy couscous.
This Lebanese-inspired Lentil and Spinach Stew is a nutritious and delicious dish that will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection. The combination of hearty lentils, vibrant spinach, and fragrant spices creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your senses. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal for a quiet night in or a dish to impress your guests at a dinner party, this stew is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this Mediterranean-inspired dish, and savor each spoonful of its nourishing goodness.
