Smoky Vegan Lentil Stew

Two ingredients—smoked salt and smoked paprika—can make a big flavor change in this smoky vegan lentil stew. Serve with crusty bread and a green salad.

Smoke It If You’ve Got It!

For this lentil stew, the smoky essence from smoked paprika and smoked salt provides the smoky flavor.

Keep both of these ingredients on hand, but it’s really the smoked salt that adds depth—it reminds me a bit of sitting next to a campfire on a chilly night. Smoked salt can be a purchased at most spice shops

Add the Tomato Paste Last

entils and tomato products don’t always get along -- the acid in tomatoes can prevent the lentils from fully softening, leaving you with crunchy lentils. This is why for this lentil soup, I save adding the tomato paste for last.

What to Serve With This Vegan Stew

Finally, this stew makes an easy dinner during the cooler months. Serve it with a simple side salad and crusty bread.

You can also play around with toppings. More fresh herbs, whole milk yogurt, or even a sprinkle of salty cheese such as feta can be a nice finish. You can also add a dash of Frank’s hot sauce to perk things up if you like.

Smoky Vegan Lentil Stew PREP TIME10 mins COOK TIME30 mins TOTAL TIME40 mins SERVINGS 4 servings

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 cup chopped yellow onion (about 1 medium)

• 1 1/2 cups diced carrots (about 2 large carrots)

• 1 cup diced celery (about 2 to 3 medium stalks)

• Pinch of salt

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup diced Yukon gold potatoes (about 1 medium-sized potato)

• 2 cups brown lentils, rinsed and drained

• 4 teaspoons smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked salt

• 2 teaspoons dried thyme

• 1 bay leaf

• 6 cups vegetable broth or water

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/4 cup chopped parsley, for garnish

• Bread, for serving