Ground Beef And Lentil Stew
Highlighted under: Warm Cooking
I absolutely love making ground beef and lentil stew, especially on chilly days. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the earthiness of lentils, creating a meal that warms not just my body but also my soul. The best part is, it's easy to customize with whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile recipe. With just one pot, I can whip up a filling, nutritious dinner that my family raves about. It's comfort food that brings us together at the table!
When I first created this ground beef and lentil stew, I wanted something both hearty and nutritious that would appeal to the entire family. The combination of lentils and ground beef not only provided a great source of protein but also a delightful texture contrast. I also discovered that letting the stew simmer longer really deepens the flavors; it's worth the wait.
Another tip that I've found helpful is to add a splash of vinegar at the end of cooking. It brightens the dish and enhances the flavors, making it even more satisfying. Serving this stew with crusty bread is a must; it’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that savory broth!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory depth of flavor from the beef and lentils
- Nutritious ingredients that make for a filling meal
- Easy to customize with seasonal vegetables
- One-pot preparation for simple cleanup
Choosing the Right Lentils
When making this Ground Beef and Lentil Stew, the type of lentils you choose can impact the texture and cooking time. For this recipe, I recommend using brown or green lentils as they hold their shape well during cooking and have a pleasant, earthy flavor. Red lentils, while a nice option, tend to break down and become mushy, losing their structure in the stew.
Make sure to rinse your lentils thoroughly under cold water before adding them to the pot. This step not only removes any dust or debris but also helps to improve the overall texture of the dish. I usually give them a quick rinse and inspect for any small stones or impurities.
Customizing Your Vegetables
One of the great features of this stew is its versatility. While the recipe calls for onion, carrots, and celery, feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale can be fantastic additions. Just remember to adjust the cooking times slightly; softer vegetables should be added later in the cooking process to maintain some texture.
If you want to enhance the recipe's flavor even further, try sautéing the vegetables until they become slightly caramelized before adding the lentils and broth. This extra step helps to develop a deeper flavor profile, making the stew even more satisfying.
Leftovers and Storage
This stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep since it stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can simply portion it into airtight containers after it has cooled down. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste when reheated. To reheat, consider warming it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
If you want to store it for an extended period, this stew freezes exceptionally well. After cooling, transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency as needed.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to make your stew flavorful and hearty:
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the cooking process!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a delicious stew:
Brown the Beef
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, and drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Then add the thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Combine Lentils and Broth
Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
Finishing Touches
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If using, stir in the apple cider vinegar before serving.
Now it's time to serve your stew with some crusty bread or over rice for a comforting meal!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, you can incorporate different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño when cooking the vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
To serve this Ground Beef and Lentil Stew, consider pairing it with crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced meal. I love to sprinkle some fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream on top just before serving, which adds a bright, creamy flavor that complements the dish beautifully. These garnishes can elevate the presentation and flavor profile, making it feel more special.
Additionally, for those looking to add a bit of heat, offering hot sauce or red pepper flakes at the table provides an opportunity for everyone to customize their bowl according to their spice preference. This little touch can make a big difference in enjoying the stew.
Tips for Perfect Texture
Achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture comes down to watching the cooking stages. Make sure not to overcook the lentils; they should be tender but still hold their shape. If you notice they are becoming too mushy, reduce the cooking time by a few minutes and check for doneness more frequently. This small adjustment ensures a pleasant bite in every spoonful of stew.
When it comes to seasoning, don’t hesitate to taste your stew toward the end of cooking. This is the best way to adjust the flavor. If it feels lacking, a bit more salt or a splash of vinegar can brighten up the dish. I often find that a pinch of sugar can also counterbalance acidity, especially if using canned tomatoes.
Dietary Adjustments
If you're looking to make this stew lighter, you can substitute ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These options will reduce the fat content and still provide a satisfying protein source. Just be aware that ground poultry may cook faster, so keep an eye on it as it browns.
For a vegetarian alternative, simply replace the ground beef with chopped mushrooms, lentils, and additional spices to enhance the flavor. You might also consider using vegetable broth instead of beef broth, allowing the earthy tones of the lentils to shine through in a wholly different way.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of protein?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
→ Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to make it even more nutritious.
→ How long does it take to cook lentils in this stew?
Generally, lentils take about 30 minutes to become tender in the stew, but cooking time may vary based on the type of lentils used.
Ground Beef And Lentil Stew
I absolutely love making ground beef and lentil stew, especially on chilly days. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the earthiness of lentils, creating a meal that warms not just my body but also my soul. The best part is, it's easy to customize with whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile recipe. With just one pot, I can whip up a filling, nutritious dinner that my family raves about. It's comfort food that brings us together at the table!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, and drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Then add the thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If using, stir in the apple cider vinegar before serving.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, you can incorporate different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño when cooking the vegetables.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g