Armenian Lentil and Vegetable Stew with Herbs
A hearty and nutritious vegetarian stew featuring tender lentils simmered with a medley of vegetables and a generous amount of fresh herbs. This comforting dish is a staple in Armenian cuisine, known for its wholesome ingredients and aromatic flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Brown or green lentils(rinsed)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots(diced)
- 2 stalks Celery stalks(diced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) Diced tomatoes(undrained)
- 6 cups Vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Dried thyme
- 1 piece Bay leaf
- 0.5 cup Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped)
- 0.25 cup Fresh dill(chopped)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for serving Lemon wedges
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- 2
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
💡 Tip: Ensure all ingredients are well combined. - 4
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 5
Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Add herbs at the end to preserve their fresh flavor and aroma. - 6
Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
💡 Tip: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a thicker stew, mash some of the cooked lentils against the side of the pot.
- ✓Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or spinach.
- ✓This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- For a non-vegetarian version, you can add cooked lamb or beef.