BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND RED LENTIL COMFORT STEW

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND RED LENTIL COMFORT STEW

Butternut Squash And Red Lentil Comfort Stew is a creamy and spiced dish that combines seasonal comfort with plant-powered nourishment. The sweetness of soft butternut squash melds beautifully with hearty red lentils, while a touch of curry powder and garlic infuse the broth with depth and gentle warmth. Simmered in rich vegetable stock, this one-pot stew is perfect for autumn and winter evenings when you need something soothing yet substantial. It’s high in fibre, naturally gluten-free and brimming with vitamins A and C, making it both delicious and nutrient-dense. Ideal for lunch, dinner or meal preparation, this Butternut Squash and Red Lentil Comfort Stew thickens as it rests, enhancing flavour with time. Whether enjoyed as it is or paired with a grain like quinoa or brown rice, it’s a flavourful and balanced vegan meal that satisfies every appetite and supports gut-friendly eating.

RECIPE CATEGORY

Dinner

SERVING SIZE

1

CUISINE

Indian

PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES

One-Pot Wonders

OCCASION/HOLIDAY

Fall

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS

Vegan

DISH TYPE

Soup / Stew

INGREDIENTS

The following ingredients are required for the preparation of Butternut Squash And Red Lentil Comfort Stew:

• 100 grams | 3.53 ounces | ½ cup red lentils
• 70 grams | 2.47 ounces | ½ cup cubed butternut squash
• 250 milliliters | 8.45 fluid ounces | 1 cup vegetable broth
• 3 grams | 0.11 ounces | 1 garlic clove, minced
• 0.50 grams | 0.02 ounces | ¼ teaspoon curry powder

FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

• Calories: 390 kilocalories
• Protein: 26.7 grams
• Carbohydrate: 67.0 grams
• Sugar: 4.2 grams
• Fibre: 31.7 grams
• Fat: 1.1 grams
• Saturated Fat: 0.2 grams
• Sodium: 310 milligrams
• Potassium: 1,245 milligrams
• Calcium: 104 milligrams
• Iron: 6.95 milligrams

PREPARATION

These steps are followed for the preparation of Butternut Squash And Red Lentil Comfort Stew:

• Sauté The Garlic: In a medium saucepan, sauté the minced garlic in a splash of water or broth over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add Squash And Spices: Stir in the cubed butternut squash and curry powder. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes to coat the squash in the spice.
• Incorporate Lentils And Broth: Add the red lentils and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
• Simmer The Stew: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20 to 22 minutes until the squash is tender and the lentils have broken down.
• Season And Serve: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm with a drizzle of lemon juice or chopped coriander, if desired.

PREPARATION TIME

5 minutes

COOKING TIME

22 minutes

TIPS

Here are some helpful tips for Butternut Squash And Red Lentil Comfort Stew:

• Uniform Cubes: Cut squash into small, even cubes so they cook quickly and evenly.
• Creamy Finish: For extra creaminess, blend part of the stew using an immersion blender before serving.
• Use Fresh Curry Powder: Fresh or homemade curry powder gives a richer and more aromatic flavour.
• Thicken Naturally: Let the stew rest for 5 minutes after cooking because it thickens naturally without any starches.
• Watch The Lentils: Red lentils cook quickly and break down fast and keep an eye on consistency near the end.

VARIATIONS

• Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale during the final few minutes of simmering.
• Coconut Creaminess: Add a splash of coconut milk at the end for a creamier and tropical version.
• Spice Boost: Include a pinch of chilli flakes or fresh ginger for a warming kick.
• Protein Upgrade: Top with toasted chickpeas or hemp seeds for added texture and protein.
• Root Vegetables Swaps: Substitute sweet potato or carrot if butternut squash is unavailable.

PREPPING AND STORAGE

• Refrigeration: Store cooled stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Leave space in containers for expansion.
• Reheating: Reheat on the hob with a splash of broth or water. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.
• Meal Preparation Tip: This stew tastes even better the next day, perfect for batch cooking and packed lunches.