This Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and nourishing ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those cozy fall evenings. Packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant seasonal vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this stew will warm your soul and keep you satisfied. Let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 onion, chopped

- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

- 2 celery stalks, chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

- 6 cups vegetable broth

- 2 cups seasonal vegetables (e.g., sweet potatoes, kale, zucchini), chopped

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

1. Prepare the Lentils:

- Rinse the lentils under cold water and remove any debris.

- In a medium-sized pot, combine the lentils with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the lentils for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Add the Flavor:

- Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and smoked paprika (if using). Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the spices become fragrant.

4. Build the Stew:

- Add the cooked lentils, bay leaf, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and vegetable broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine.

5. Simmer and Cook:

- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Add Seasonal Vegetables:

- After the stew has simmered for 15 minutes, add your choice of seasonal vegetables. This could include chopped sweet potatoes, kale, zucchini, or any other vegetables you prefer.

7. Continue to Simmer:

- Cover the pot again and let the stew continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

8. Season and Serve:

- Remove the bay leaf from the stew and discard it. Taste the stew and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.

9. Garnish and Enjoy:

- Ladle the hearty lentil and vegetable stew into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season and your personal preferences.

- If you're looking for an extra layer of flavor, you can sauté the vegetables and aromatics with a splash of balsamic vinegar before adding the lentils and broth.

- This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, and the flavors often develop even more after a day or two.

- Serve the stew with a slice of whole-grain bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

In conclusion, this Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew is a wonderful way to enjoy the comfort of fall while nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients. The combination of protein-rich lentils, aromatic spices, and seasonal vegetables creates a satisfying and flavorful dish that's sure to become a favorite in your fall recipe rotation. So, gather your ingredients, light up the stove, and let the delicious aroma of this stew fill your home with warmth and coziness.