Simple Homemade Spiced Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew

Ingredients

• •1 tablespoon olive oil
• •1 medium onion, diced
• •2 cloves garlic, minced
• •1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• •1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
• •1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• •4 cups vegetable broth
• •1 teaspoon ground cumin
• •1 teaspoon ground coriander
• •1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• •1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• •1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• •1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• •1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• •1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• •1 medium lemon, sliced into wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. 2

   Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.

3. 3

   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. 4

   Add the cubed sweet potato and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat in the oil and garlic mixture.

5. 5

   Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices.

6. 6

   Add the rinsed red lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.

7. 7

   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the lentils are tender, and the sweet potatoes are cooked through.

8. 8

   Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with additional salt or spices.

9. 9

   Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired. Lemon wedges can be served on the side for an added burst of flavor.