Hearty Sausage and Lentil Stew

This Hearty Sausage and Lentil Stew is a perfect comfort food that warms you from the inside out. Combining savory Italian sausage with nutrient-rich lentils, this stew delivers a robust flavor profile complemented by vegetables and herbs.

It's an easy-to-make dish that simmers to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together. Ideal for chilly evenings, this stew not only fills the belly but also nourishes the soul.

Packed with protein and fiber, this stew is both satisfying and healthy. The addition of aromatic herbs enhances the overall taste, while the lentils provide a hearty base that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the sausage.

Serve this dish with crusty bread for a complete meal that's sure to please a crowd or feed a busy family on a weeknight.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Remove the casing from the Italian sausage and crumble it into the pot. Cook the sausage until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once the sausage is cooked through, add the dried lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Bring the stew to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and check the consistency, adding more broth or water if necessary.
5. Once the lentils are cooked, taste the stew and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Extra Tips