Ingredients

1 cup dried red lentils , rinsed and sorted
1 1/2 cups turnips , chopped into 1 inch cubes
1 medium onion , cut into 1/2 inch wedges
2 medium carrots , cut into 1 inch pieces
1 medium red bell pepper , cut into 1 inch pieces
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 cans chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 slices bacon , crisp-cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup finely chopped green onion
This Hearty Lentil and Root Vegetable Stew is the perfect comfort food for a cozy evening meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, it's a healthy and filling meal option that can be enjoyed all year round. The combination of lentils and root veggies provide an earthy flavor and a variety of textures, making it a satisfying and flavorful dish. The red bell pepper and spices add a touch of heat and depth of flavor to this comforting stew. Serve it up with some warm, crusty bread and revel in the comfort of a hearty meal.

Instructions

1.In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2.Add the onions and cook until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
3.Stir in the turnips, carrots, and red bell pepper and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
4.Add the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth to the pot.
5.Stir in the rinsed and sorted lentils and bring the mixture to a boil.
6.Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, letting the stew simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
7.Add in the salt and bacon bits, giving everything a good stir.
8.For a final touch, garnish the stew with a sprinkle of finely chopped green onion. Serve hot and enjoy!

PROS

This hearty stew is loaded with protein and fiber from the lentils, making it an excellent choice for a filling, yet healthy meal.

The combination of root vegetables and red bell pepper provides a variety of vitamins and nutrients.

It’s easy to make and can be a great meal prep option for busy weeks.

CONS

The stew may be too spicy for some, so adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.

It may take some time to prepare the vegetables, but the end result is worth it.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This stew is a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, which helps maintain digestive health and provide a feeling of fullness.
The root vegetables in this recipe contain important vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, which are crucial for a healthy immune system and overall wellness.

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