This hearty Lentil & White Bean Stew is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into a deeply flavorful and comforting meal. Imagine a rich, warming broth brimming with tender lentils, creamy white beans, and aromatic spices that evoke the vibrant flavors of North India. This isn't your average stew; it's a culinary journey, a satisfying hug in a bowl, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. The blend of earthy lentils and delicate beans creates a beautiful textural contrast, while the carefully balanced spices provide a symphony of warmth and intrigue on the palate.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this stew is surprisingly easy to make. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own delicious and satisfying Lentil & White Bean Stew, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Tools Needed
- Large skillet or pot
Ingredients
- Onion
- Salt
- Water
- Black Cardamom
- Bay Leaves
- Fennel Seeds
- Ground Spices (see recipe notes)
- Ginger-Garlic Paste or Minced Ginger-Garlic
- Tomatoes
- Vegetable Stock
- Coconut Milk
- Red Lentils (split or whole)
- White Beans (cannellini, northern, etc.)
- Chopped Spinach (fresh or frozen)
- Cilantro
- Lemon Juice
- Optional: Non-dairy Cream
- Kashmiri Chili Powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Spices
- Add oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Cook until translucent, adding a splash of water as needed.
- Add slightly crushed black cardamom pods and bay leaves; cook for about a minute. Stir in fennel seeds.
- In a small bowl, mix ground spices (recipe notes below). Add 2/3 of the mixture to the onions, add a splash of water to help blend and prevent burning.
- Add ginger-garlic paste (or minced ginger-garlic) and cook for about 30 seconds. Add tomatoes and a splash of water, mixing well. Reduce heat to medium; cook until tomatoes are jammy, pressing larger pieces to ensure even cooking.
Step 2. Simmer the Stew
- Once the tomato mixture is roasted and shows an oily sheen, add vegetable stock, coconut milk, and salt. Bring to a boil.
- Add red lentils and white beans; partially cover and simmer for 10 minutes, or until lentils are cooked to your preference.
Step 3. Add Greens and Finish
- Stir in chopped spinach (fresh or frozen) and cook for 2 minutes (fresh) or 1 minute (frozen).
- Reduce heat to low, taste, and adjust seasoning (salt, sugar, spice).
Step 4. Serve
- Sprinkle with remaining spice mix, cilantro, and lemon juice. Serve hot.
Read more: Easy Beef Stew Recipe: Delicious & Simple Indian-Spiced Stew
Tips
- Use any beans you like! Cannellini, northern beans, black beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas will work.
- Feel free to experiment with the spices! Use what you have on hand.
- Serve with flatbread, rice, quinoa, toasted bread, garlic bread, or baked potato.
- Kashmiri chili powder is highly recommended for its color and flavor.
- Black cardamom is optional but adds a wonderful aroma. If you don't have it, ask a neighbor or coworker who cooks Indian food!
- You can make this with just beans and coconut milk, omitting the vegetable stock.
- Add other greens like kale, chard, or mustard greens.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 60-70g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of lentils?
Yes! Red lentils cook faster, while brown or green lentils hold their shape better. Choose your favorite, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What can I serve this stew with?
This stew pairs beautifully with naan bread, rice, or even a dollop of plain yogurt for a cooling contrast. A side salad also works well.
This Cozy Lentil Bean Stew offers a comforting and flavorful escape, perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying weeknight meal. The blend of spices and textures creates a truly unforgettable taste experience that will leave you wanting more. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this North Indian-inspired stew!