Description
This Smoky Cauliflower & Lentil Stew is a rich, comforting, and deeply spiced dish featuring red lentils, tender cauliflower, and a smoky blend of warm spices. It’s hearty, plant-based, and perfect for cozy nights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 can (400 g) chopped tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons tahini (for serving)
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Coconut yogurt (optional, for added creaminess)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, chili flakes, and turmeric. Toast spices for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cauliflower florets and stir to coat with spices.
- Pour in chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, red lentils, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes until lentils are soft and cauliflower is tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm, topped with tahini, fresh coriander, and optional coconut yogurt.
Notes
- Add diced carrots or sweet potatoes for more sweetness and body.
- Stir in spinach or kale at the end for added greens.
- Use cashew cream instead of tahini for a different flavor.
- Swap red lentils for green or brown, increasing cook time by 10–15 minutes.
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes or smoked salt for deeper flavor.
- Blend part of the stew for a creamier texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
