Smoky Lentil Stew

Serves 4
Calories: TBA

Hearty, rich and full of good stuff. Really easy to cook, and freezes well. Also works with green lentils (reduce water to 750ml). Just use vegan creme fraiche for a vegan version.

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Ingredients

1 onion
2 cloves garlic
2 medium carrots
2 medium potatoes
2 sticks celery
1 red pepper
30ml olive oil
1tsp smoked paprika
1tsp regular paprika
2 tbsp tomato paste
200g black beluga lentils
1 litre stock
Salt and freshly ground pepper
75g creme fraiche
Small bunch chopped parsley

Method

1. Peel and finely dice the onion. Peel and mince the garlic. Peel the carrots and potatoes and chop them into cubes. Dice the celery and pepper.

2. Add the olive oil to a large pot on medium heat. Add the onions, celery, carrots, potatoes and peppers and cook for about five minutes, stirring often, until starting to soften.

3. Add the garlic, paprika and smoked paprika and cook for 1-2 minutes. Then add the tomato paste, stir well and cook for another minute.

4. Add the lentils and the stock and bring to the boil. Then turn the heat down and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, until the lentils are tender and the stew is nice and thick.

5. Season well with salt and pepper. Stir the creme fraiche into the pot or let everybody serve themselves a dollop. Serve with some parsley on top.