CABBAGE AND CARAWAY LENTIL STEW
Cabbage And Caraway Lentil Stew is a warming and one-pot wonder that blends tender red lentils with shredded cabbage, garlic and the subtle warmth of caraway seeds in a light veggie broth. This gentle stew offers comforting textures and well-balanced flavours, earthy lentils softened by cabbage, lightly spiced with caraway and brightened by a garlic aroma. Perfect for simple weeknight dinners or nutritious lunches, it’s vegan, gluten-free and packed with protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. With minimal prep, it’s ideal for busy schedules or beginners in plant-based cooking. Serve it solo or accompanied by crusty bread, boiled potatoes or a grain for a full meal. This stew nourishes the body and soothes the soul with its homely taste and vibrant feel.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Eastern European
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
One‑Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Winter
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Cabbage And Caraway Lentil Stew:
- ½ cup red lentils, rinsed
- ½ cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup water (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste (optional)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 360.9 kcal
- Fat: 1.4 g
- Carbohydrate: 65.7 g
- Sugar: 3.1 g
- Sodium: 869.3 mg
- Fiber: 12.3 g
- Protein: 24.8 g
- Calcium: 80.1 mg
- Saturated Fat: 0.2 g
- Iron: 6.9 mg
- Potassium: 764.8 mg
PREPARATION
- Toast Caraway Seeds And Garlic: In a small saucepan, dry-toast caraway seeds over medium heat for 30 seconds until aromatic. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Liquid And Lentils: Pour in 1 cup water or broth, stir in the rinsed lentils to combine.
- Bring To A Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add Cabbage: Stir in shredded cabbage, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until lentils are tender and cabbage is soft.
- Season And Serve: Season with salt and pepper if desired. Serve warm in a bowl, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a swirl of olive oil.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
18 minutes
TIPS
- Rinse Lentils Well: Washing lentils prevents foam and ensures smooth consistency.
- Even Simmer: Adjust heat to maintain a gentle simmer and not a vigorous boil.
- Cabbage Thickness: Thinly shred cabbage for quicker cooking and tender texture.
- Depth Of Flavour: Toasting caraway releases essential oils and don’t skip it.
- Adjust Consistency: Add extra water or broth if you prefer a looser stew.
VARIATIONS
- Add Vegetables: Include diced carrot or celery for extra nutrients and colour.
- Herb Twist: Swap or add dill or parsley with caraway for fresh notes.
- Spice Level: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chilli flakes for warmth.
- Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of coconut or oat milk for creaminess.
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or white beans to up the protein and texture.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Once cooled, store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the hob, adding a splash of water to loosen. Microwave in short bursts, stirring halfway.
- Batch Cooking: This recipe doubles well; make a larger batch and enjoy throughout the week. It tastes even better after resting overnight.