Description
Ginger Sweet Potato & Lentil Stew is a hearty, vegan, and gluten-free one-pot meal that combines the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with protein-rich lentils and the zesty warmth of fresh ginger. This comforting stew is packed with nourishing ingredients and vibrant flavors, making it perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy, soul-soothing dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece fresh ginger, finely chopped
Legumes
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed thoroughly
Liquids
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh Herbs and Garnish
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into evenly sized cubes. Finely chop the onions, garlic, and fresh ginger to release their flavors.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for about 5 minutes until fragrant and softened, forming the savory base of your stew.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Stir continuously for about a minute until the spices release their aromas. Then pour in the canned diced tomatoes, stirring well to combine and deepen the flavor.
- Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Lentils: Add the diced sweet potatoes and rinsed red lentils to the pot. Mix everything evenly so the ingredients absorb the spices and tomato juices.
- Pour in Broth and Simmer: Pour in vegetable broth, just enough to cover the ingredients. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes, until lentils are tender and sweet potatoes are soft and melt-in-your-mouth.
- Final Touches: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Choose fresh ginger for the best flavor and zing compared to powders or pastes.
- Always rinse lentils thoroughly to remove dust and improve texture.
- Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy lentils and overly soft sweet potatoes.
- If adding lemon juice or vinegar, add it at the end to maintain brightness.
- Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Ginger, Sweet Potato, Lentil, Stew, Vegan, Gluten-Free, One-Pot, Comfort Food