LENTIL AND PUMPKIN STEW
Lentil and Pumpkin Stew is a cosy and autumn-inspired one-pot recipe that brings together tender brown lentils and sweet, diced pumpkin, all gently simmered in flavoursome vegetable broth. Kissed with a hint of warming nutmeg and enriched with aromatic garlic, this stew offers a comforting combination of sweetness and spice. Earthy, protein-packed lentils and vitamin-rich pumpkin create a satisfying fusion of nourishment and taste. Perfect for chilly evenings or laid-back weekend prep, this vegan and gluten-free stew is both simple and hearty. This stew is simply vegan, low-fat and naturally wholesome, which makes a wonderful base for meal prep or a warming lunch. Serve it solo for a light yet filling option or pair with crusty bread or grains to turn it into a heartier feast.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
African
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
One‑Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Fall
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Lentil And Pumpkin Stew:
- ½ cup brown lentils, rinsed
- ½ cup diced pumpkin (peeled and chopped)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste (optional)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 365.4 kcal
- Fat: 1.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4 g
- Carbohydrate: 67 g
- Sugar: 3.7 g
- Sodium: 896.9 mg
- Fiber: 11.1 g
- Protein: 24.6 g
- Calcium: 66.7 mg
- Iron: 7 mg
- Potassium: 887.7 mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Lentil And Pumpkin Stew:
- Heat The Garlic: Lightly sauté the minced garlic in a small drizzle of oil or a splash of broth over medium heat until fragrant (1 to 2 minutes).
- Add Pumpkin And Nutmeg: Stir in diced pumpkin and a sprinkling of nutmeg, cooking gently for around 3 minutes to meld the spice with the pumpkin.
- Stir In Lentils And Broth: Add the rinsed brown lentils and pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, uncovered, until the lentils are tender and the pumpkin has softened.
- Season And Serve: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper, then serve warm, perfect with a swirl of oat cream or fresh herbs.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
30 minutes
TIPS
- Even Cube Cut: Cut the pumpkin into evenly sized cubes to ensure consistent cooking.
- Garlic Fragrance: Take care not to burn the garlic; keep the heat moderate.
- Nutmeg Variations: Freshly grated nutmeg is ideal, but ground nutmeg offers convenience.
- Adjust Texture: Add extra broth if needed to create a soupier consistency.
- Stir Occasionally: Helps prevent sticking and encourages even combining of flavours.
VARIATIONS
- Add Greens: Stir in kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes for added nutrients.
- Creamy Upgrade: Swirl in coconut or almond cream at the end for richness.
- Spice It Up: Add cinnamon, curry powder or smoked paprika for a different flavour profile.
- Protein Boost: Include chickpeas or crumbled tempeh for extra protein.
- Grain Pairing: Serve over quinoa, barley or brown rice for a complete meal.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months; leave room for expansion.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the hob with a splash of water or broth or microwave, stirring halfway.
- Meal Prep Tip: Batch cook and portion for quick, comforting lunches and dinners; tastes even better after a day in the fridge.