Syrian Lentil and Spinach Stew (Adas wa Sabanekh)
A hearty and nourishing stew combining earthy lentils with fresh spinach, flavored with aromatic spices and a bright touch of lemon. This dish is a staple in Syrian cuisine, offering a comforting and healthy meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Brown lentils(rinsed and picked over)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 large Yellow onion(diced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and diced)
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 6 cups Vegetable broth
- 5 cups Fresh spinach(roughly chopped)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 0.5 tsp Coriander
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 0.5 cup Lemon juice(freshly squeezed)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Do not brown the garlic. - 2
Add the rinsed brown lentils, diced carrots, and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.
- 3
Pour in the vegetable broth. Add cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- 4
Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the spinach has wilted.
- 5
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- 6
Let the stew rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve hot, with extra lemon wedges on the side if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the lentils against the side of the pot.
- ✓If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the stew.
- ✓This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- Include a bay leaf during the simmering process for added depth of flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of tahini.