Green Lentils Stewed with Eggplant, Tomatoes, Garlic, and Spices

Green lentils are a versatile and nutritious ingredient, offering a hearty base for many dishes. Paired with tender eggplant, ripe tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices, they create a comforting stew that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Topped with a rich sour cream sauce and a sprig of thyme, this dish becomes a delightful culinary experience perfect for any time of year.

Ingredients:

For the Stew:

• 1 cup green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 medium eggplants, diced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Sour Cream Sauce:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Stew:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Spices: Stir in the cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and become aromatic.
3. Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced eggplant and cook until it begins to soften and absorb the flavors, about 5 minutes. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down and form a sauce, another 5 minutes.
4. Add the Lentils and Broth: Stir in the green lentils and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the stew has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Season and Serve: Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust any other seasonings as needed.

2. Prepare the Sour Cream Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

3. Assemble and Garnish:

1. Ladle the lentil and eggplant stew into bowls.
2. Drizzle a generous dollop of the sour cream sauce over each serving.
3. Garnish with a fresh sprig of thyme and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added freshness and color.

A Culinary Delight

This green lentil stew is not only packed with flavors but also rich in nutrients, making it a wholesome meal choice. The eggplants add a creamy texture, while the tomatoes provide a tangy sweetness that complements the earthiness of the lentils. The blend of spices brings warmth and depth, elevating the dish to a comforting delight.

The sour cream sauce with thyme adds a refreshing and creamy contrast to the robust stew, making each bite a harmonious balance of flavors. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering with loved ones. Enjoy this delightful and nourishing stew that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

❤ Try our USDA certified organic Green Lentils and Red Lentils ❤

Related Blogs:

• Why Lentils? Part 1 - History
• Why Lentils? Part 2 - Nutrition
• Why Lentils? Part 3 - Cooking Tips
• Red Lentils vs Green Lentils
• The Wonders of Green Lentils: Unveiling Their Benefits
• Fiber Fuel: Unleashing the Health Benefits of Green Lentils