Stewed lentils are a fairly common dish in our homes. Their preparation varies depending on the region, although you'll find that all versions are delicious. The most common lentil variety for this recipe is the brown lentil, however, it can be made with any other variety. Consuming this dish provides significant nutritional benefits, as lentils are considered the most nutritious grain in our diet , and therefore should not be missing from our meals. In general, they provide us with a large amount of essential nutrients for our development, including iron and vitamin B. Their fiber content is fantastic for stimulating our digestive tract. Furthermore, it's ideal for controlling cravings, as it's very filling, keeping you satisfied for longer and helping with weight management. Keep in mind that the secret to this dish lies in the stewing process, so we've prepared all the details regarding the ingredients and preparation of this recipe so you can follow it to the letter and impress everyone at home.
Ingredients (6 servings)
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 6 cloves of garlic
- grated tomato (about 6 tablespoons)
- 500g brown lentils
- sweet paprika from La Vera
- salt
- extra virgin olive oil
- water
- bay leaves (optional)
Preparation (approx. 90 minutes):
1. Dice the onion into fairly small pieces.
2. Peel and cut the carrots into pieces.
3. Heat a little olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
4. Put the onion, carrots, and unpeeled garlic cloves in the pot (if desired, you can add a couple of bay leaves). Sauté until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the grated tomato and cook for about 5 minutes. Add salt to taste and a little smoked paprika. Mix well.
6. Wash the lentils and cover them with water to remove any that float or are dry.
7. Drain the lentils, add them to the pot and cover them with mineral water.
8. Let it simmer gently for about 50 minutes, adding water if necessary and stirring carefully from time to time.
9. Adjust the salt when the lentils are tender. Enjoy!