Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Sweet Potato Lentil Stew


Hearty lentil soup is probably one of my favorite things in the world. My personal recipe ebbs and flows through lots of changes according to what I have on hand, but always ends up tasting freakin' amazing. It's simple and wonderful, nourishing and kind to your sexy bod.

Heat some oil in a large, deep pot (a stockpot is best). Add:
1 big onion, diced
1 tbs paprika (I tend to add a good deal more...I love paprika)
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp cayenne pepper (If you want)

Cook the onion and spices on high for about 2 minutes, or until the onion starts to soften. Stir in:
1 28 oz can diced tomatoes
8 cups liquid*
2-3 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 cups dry lentils (any kind)
salt and pepper to taste

Bring to a boil over high heat. Once the soup is boil, turn down the stove, cover, and simmer for around 40 minutes or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are soft. Grab a glass of wine and a few slices of vegan cornbread, then go sit outside for an amazing summer supper.

Gotta love lentil soup! Adapting your own version is a cinch, too. My wonderful friend Stephanie shares my lentil adoration and has done lots of experimenting. Here's her amazing concoction.

*You've got a few options as far as liquids go. Use whatever you've got or a combination of two or three of them, just making sure you get 8 cups of liquid in total:
  • Vegetable Broth
  • Water with 2-3 vegan bouillon cubes
  • Plain Water (you may need to up the spices)
  • Red Wine (my fave option...great for when you're feeling decadent!)

2 comments:

  1. Looks tasty Shelley but your recipe forgets to add the lentils ;-)

    How much do you typically add for the amounts you've got there?

    PS: Love the red wine idea!

    ReplyDelete
  2. OH! HAHAHA! I'll fix that. I guess I was typing a bit too hastily!

    ReplyDelete

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