Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Ideas

I absolutely love making this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew, especially on chilly evenings. The combination of hearty lentils, creamy tomatoes, and savory spices creates a comforting dish that's both satisfying and wholesome. It’s quick to prepare yet bursting with flavor, making it a fantastic weeknight meal. I often pair it with crusty bread for a complete experience. It’s also a great way to pack in nutrients while still enjoying a delicious, creamy stew that warms the soul.

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:13:40.064Z

When I first created this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew, I wanted to incorporate ingredients that balance convenience and flavor. The use of red lentils is key, as they cook quickly and absorb the spices beautifully. I often find that adding a splash of coconut milk at the end gives the stew a luxurious, creamy texture without being overly heavy. It's the perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but is incredibly healthy at the same time.

Over the years, I’ve made this stew countless times, tweaking the spices and vegetables to fit my mood. I discovered that a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors and elevates the dish entirely. Trust me, this little tip makes a world of difference, turning a simple stew into a delightful culinary experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture from coconut milk that complements the spices
Hearty lentils packed with protein and fiber
Quick, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding Lentils

Red lentils are ideal for this creamy stew due to their quick cooking time and ability to break down, resulting in a luscious consistency. Unlike green or brown lentils, red lentils cook in about 15-20 minutes and easily absorb flavors, making them the perfect base for this dish. When they are properly cooked, they should be tender and slightly mushy, contributing to the stew's creamy texture.

One critical tip while using lentils is to rinse them under cold water before adding to your pot. This not only removes any dirt or debris that may be present but also helps eliminate any bitterness. Properly rinsed lentils will enhance the overall flavor of the stew, ensuring each bite is satisfying and delightful.

Perfecting the Flavor

The combination of cumin and smoked paprika is what elevates the flavors in this stew. Cumin adds an earthy depth, while smoked paprika contributes a subtle smokiness that complements the creaminess of the coconut milk. For a more profound flavor profile, consider toasting the spices directly in the pot for about 30 seconds before adding the lentils; this enhances their aroma and flavor significantly.

If you’re looking to experiment, feel free to swap the smoked paprika for regular paprika or even a pinch of cayenne for some heat. Additionally, adding a bay leaf during the simmering stage can infuse the stew with a hint of herbal flavor, adding another layer to the overall profile.

Serving and Storing

This Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew is a versatile dish that can be served in a multitude of ways. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, which can be used to soak up the sauce, or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. For a fresh touch, consider adding a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top, which can balance the dish's richness beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making leftover servings even more delightful. You can also freeze the stew for up to three months. When reheating, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if the stew thickens too much.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this flavorful stew:

Ingredients

1 cup red lentils
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth
Fresh basil for garnish

With these ingredients, you're ready to make a delicious stew!

Instructions

Here's how to make this creamy and delicious stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Lentils and Spices

Stir in the red lentils, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.

Incorporate the Liquid

Pour in the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Final Touches

Taste and season with salt and pepper. If desired, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice into the stew before serving.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a wholesome meal!

A hearty meal like this is sure to please everyone!

Pro Tips

For extra nourishment, feel free to add chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added greens.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have coconut milk on hand, you can substitute it with almond milk for a lighter option or heavy cream for a richer base. However, keep in mind that almond milk will alter the flavor slightly, while heavy cream will increase the caloric content. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative and want to maintain creaminess, blended silken tofu can also be a great option.

For those seeking a protein boost or additional texture in the stew, consider adding diced carrots or sweet potatoes when you sauté the onions. These vegetables not only enhance the nutritional profile but also add natural sweetness, providing a nice contrast to the acidity of the tomatoes.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your stew comes out too thick after cooking, simply add a bit more vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency. Remember to add liquid gradually, stirring well each time, to avoid making it too runny. Conversely, if the stew is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to concentrate the flavors and thicken it up naturally.

In case the stew tastes a bit bland, try adjusting the seasoning. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors and provide balance. Sometimes, even a pinch of sugar can enhance the tomatoes’ natural sweetness if they taste a bit tart.

Make-Ahead Ideas

Preparing this stew ahead of time is a great way to save on busy weeknights. You can fully cook it and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheating it on the stove the next day will allow the flavors to meld even more, creating a potentially richer dish.

You can also prep the base components like chopped onions, minced garlic, and spices in advance. Store these in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it extremely easy to whip up the stew quickly when you're ready to enjoy it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, but red lentils cook quicker and blend into the stew more easily. If using green or brown lentils, increase the cooking time.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This stew keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days and can be frozen for longer storage.

→ How can I make this stew spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for heat. Adjust to your taste preference.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or even a simple side salad to balance the meal.