Ingredients

1/2 cup lentils
1/2 cup navy beans
2 cups chopped onions
2 cups sliced celery
5 carrots , sliced
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 cup barley
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup red wine
1 quart v- 8 vegetable juice
2 cups water
American Indian Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that has been enjoyed by Native American communities for generations. Also known as Three Sisters Stew, it celebrates the traditional trio of food plants commonly known as the 'three sisters' in Native American agriculture: beans, corn, and squash. The recipe has many variations, but the combination of beans, vegetables, and spices gives the stew a rich and savory taste that is perfect for cold winter nights. The best thing about this recipe is that it can be cooked in a slow cooker, so you can sit back and relax while it cooks itself!

Instructions

1.Rinse the lentils and navy beans and soak them overnight in water.
2.Drain the beans and add them to the slow cooker along with the onions, celery, carrots, barley, brown sugar, thyme, garlic powder, bay leaves, and black pepper.
3.Stir in the red wine, vegetable juice, and water.
4.Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
5.Remove the bay leaves before serving.

PROS

This stew is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

As it is cooked in a slow cooker, it is a fuss-free recipe that requires minimal effort and attention.

The leftovers taste even better the next day!

CONS

The preparation requires soaking the beans overnight, so it requires some planning ahead.

It yields a large batch of stew, so it may not be suitable for those cooking for one or two people.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This American Indian Stew is a nutritious and healthy meal. The lentils and navy beans are excellent sources of dietary fiber and protein, while the vegetables provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Barley is known for its cholesterol-lowering properties and it qualifies this recipe as an excellent heart-healthy meal. The spices like thyme and garlic have antimicrobial properties and support immunity. Drinking a glass of red wine in moderation may also have some health benefits as it is rich in antioxidants.

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