Lentil Stew with Winter Vegetables

Western farmers grow all manner of lentils, including the green ones called French or lentilles du Puy, which cook up firm and nutty. Combine them with root vegetables, kale, and squash for a deeply satisfying winter meal.

This recipe, and others like it, can be found in the article “A Cold Day Delight: 26 Stew Recipes Perfect for Winter.”

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup French green lentils

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 sprigs fresh thyme

2 small turnips, scrubbed and cut into 1/2-in. cubes (about 1 cup)

1 bunch (about 5) baby golden or Chioggia beets, peeled (or 3 large beets, halved)

1 cup cubed butternut squash (1/2-in. cubes)

4 cups stemmed, chopped kale

1 bunch (about 5) baby carrots, trimmed and scrubbed

1/2 cup minced flat-leaf parsley

3 ounces aged goat cheese (such as Chevrot or Bûcheron, cut into small pieces)

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, lentils, salt, pepper, thyme, and 4 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Add turnips, beets, and squash and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, 20 minutes.

Step 2

Add kale and carrots and cook 10 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and stir in parsley and goat cheese. Serve immediately, accompanied by crusty bread.

Step 3

Note: Semifirm aged goat cheese, available at most cheese counters, has an assertive flavor that pairs well with winter greens and root vegetables. Its firmer texture holds up well when heated.

Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving
Calories 416Calories from Fat 30

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 14g22%

Saturated Fat 5.4g27%
Cholesterol 17mg6%
Sodium 813mg34%
Total Carbohydrate 55g19%

Dietary Fiber 10g40%
Protein 23g46%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Lentil Stew with Winter Vegetables