Smokey Lentil Broth
I adapted this recipe from a weight watchers recipe that also called for pork fillets. You can add meat to this but the lentils give it a nice meatiness anyway and I prefer to keep things plant based where possible. I serve this with homemade hummus and Turkish bread and it is seriously the best! You could also add quinoa to it to make it a meal on its own.
I adapted this recipe from a weight watchers recipe that also called for pork fillets. You can add meat to this but the lentils give it a nice meatiness anyway and I prefer to keep things plant based where possible. I serve this with homemade hummus and Turkish bread and it is seriously the best! You could also add quinoa to it to make it a meal on its own.
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 400 g canned diced tomatoes
- 1 medium red onion finely chopped
- 1 large red capsicum finely chopped (replace with zucchini, green capsicum or other v
- 2 clove(s) fresh garlic crushed
- 2 cans organic canned lentils rinsed, drained (can use equivalent of dried)
- 2 cup(s) stock (500ml)
- 1 tsp ground smoked paprika (essential!)
- 1 tsp mexican seasoning
- 1/2 cup(s) fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
- 2 leaves or other greens such as silverbeet
- Carbohydrate 9.05160166666667 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.843543332433333 g
- Fiber 2.33291664067904 g
- Protein 1.490225 g
- Saturated Fat 0.118453333209061 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (169g)
- Sodium 12.7585833333153 mg
- Sugar 6.71868502598763 g
- Trans Fat 0.143955833308961 g
- Calories 46 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat half the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and capsicum and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until softened. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the paprika and Mexican seasoning and fry off for 30 seconds.
- Add the lentils, tomatoes, stock and 1½ cups (375ml) water and bring to the boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes (if using dried lentils this will increase the time to 20+ minutes).
- Stir the parsley and spinach into the tomato broth and ladle into serving bowls. Serve with your favourite bread.
Smokey Lentil Broth: A Simple, Flavorful, and Plant-Based Meal
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a constant struggle. Between work, school pick-ups, and the never-ending to-do list, whipping up something elaborate often falls to the wayside. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for simple, satisfying recipes that don’t require hours in the kitchen. This Smokey Lentil Broth is one of those gems.
I discovered this recipe while searching for quick and healthy vegetarian options. It's adapted from a Weight Watchers recipe, but I've tweaked it to be entirely plant-based, focusing on the natural meatiness of the lentils. The result is a hearty, flavorful broth that’s surprisingly filling and satisfying. Forget the complicated recipes – this one’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
What I love most about this recipe:
- Speed and Simplicity: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky paprika, savory lentils, and fresh herbs creates a rich and delicious flavor profile.
- Versatility: While I love it as a light meal on its own, it's incredibly versatile. You can serve it with homemade hummus and crusty bread, as I do, or add quinoa to create a more substantial meal. You could even incorporate other vegetables to customize the broth to your liking.
- Health Benefits: Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making this a healthy and nutritious option for your family.
Beyond the Weeknight:
This Smokey Lentil Broth isn't just for busy weeknights. It's also fantastic for meal prepping. I often make a big batch on the weekend and store it in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: If you enjoy a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add some greens: Kale or chard would be delicious additions to the broth.
- Make it a complete meal: Adding cooked quinoa or brown rice will turn this into a complete and satisfying meal.
- Garnish generously: Fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a dollop of plain yogurt can elevate this simple dish.
More than just a recipe, this Smokey Lentil Broth is a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients combined in a delicious way. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy on the time and budget but big on flavor. So, give it a try, and let me know what you think!
