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Savory Pumpkin and Lentil Stew

This hearty stew combines velvety pumpkin with tender lentils, simmered with warming spices such as cinnamon and cumin. The dish has a smooth, thick texture with a vibrant orange color, offering a comforting visual and flavorful experience.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small butternut pumpkin or other orange pumpkin peeled, seeded, and chopped
  • 1 cup red lentils rinsed
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk optional for creaminess
  • to taste sea salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef's Knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Blender or immersion blender (optional)

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes, with a gentle aroma filling your kitchen.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic along with ground cumin and cinnamon, cooking for another minute until fragrant and slightly toasted.
  4. Add the chopped pumpkin pieces to the pot, stirring to coat them evenly with the spices and onion mixture.
  5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, uncovered, over medium heat.
  6. Add the rinsed red lentils and stir well. Cover the pot and let everything simmer gently for about 25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and the lentils are cooked through, with a thick, bubbling consistency.
  7. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the stew to your desired level of creaminess. Otherwise, leave it chunky for a heartier bite.
  8. Stir in the coconut milk to add richness and velvety smoothness, then season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Let it heat through for another 5 minutes.
  9. Check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed. The stew should be vibrant orange, thick, with a fragrant aroma.
  10. Scoop into bowls and enjoy this warm, hearty pumpkin and lentil stew, perfect for cozy evenings.

Notes

For extra flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.