Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew on chilly evenings. The combination of lentils and tomatoes creates a rich, savory flavor that warms my soul. What makes this meal even more delightful is that it's super easy to prepare; in just under an hour, I can have a hearty dish ready. With a touch of creamy coconut milk, it offers a unique twist that pairs perfectly with crusty bread or over rice. This stew is not just comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a favorite in our household.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:58:36.843Z

When I first concocted this recipe, I wanted something comforting yet nutritious. I experimented with various spices and finally settled on a blend that really enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and earthiness of the lentils. I love that each serving is not only filling but also healthy!

One key detail I discovered is the importance of simmering the stew for a bit longer. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. I usually let it simmer for around 30 minutes, which is where the real magic happens. Don't skip this step for the fullest flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that balances perfectly with the lentils
A delightful blend of spices that complements the tomatoes
Nutritious and satisfying enough for any family dinner

Understanding Ingredients

The foundation of this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew lies in the choice of ingredients, particularly the red lentils. They cook quickly and break down to create a beautifully creamy texture without the need for flour or dairy thickeners. Their mild flavor helps absorb the spices and tomatoes, enhancing the overall depth of the dish. When picking lentils, ensure they are free from debris or tiny stones, as this will save you from any unpleasant surprises during cooking.

Crushed tomatoes are the star of this stew, providing both acidity and sweetness. Opt for high-quality, canned crushed tomatoes that have no added sugars or preservatives. Their rich texture and flavor create a satisfying base that combines seamlessly with the spices. Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of sugar if your tomatoes are too acidic, balancing the flavors perfectly.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing your aromatics properly is crucial for developing flavor. When you heat the olive oil, ensure it’s hot enough to make the onions sizzle when added. This helps to caramelize them, bringing out their natural sweetness—a softening phase should take about 5 minutes, but keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning. Once you add the garlic and spices, stir continuously for about a minute until fragrant, as overcooking garlic can lead to bitterness.

Simmering is where the magic happens. After adding the lentils and liquid, bring the pot to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to gently bubble. Uncovering the pot is key for this recipe; it lets the stew thicken naturally as the liquid reduces. Stir it every 5-10 minutes, ensuring that nothing sticks to the bottom. By the end of the 30 minutes, the lentils should appear soft but still hold their shape.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start for an efficient cooking experience.

Ingredients

1 cup red lentils
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Having all ingredients measured ensures you won’t miss anything!

Instructions

Make sure to follow the steps in order for the best results!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Lentils and Tomatoes

Add red lentils to the pot, followed by the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat and let the stew simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The lentils should be tender.

Finish with Coconut Milk

Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes on low heat.

Garnish and Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot with bread or over rice.

Enjoy your hearty, creamy stew!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This stew stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the creamy texture when reheating, warming it gently on the stove over low heat is preferable, stirring frequently. If the stew has thickened too much, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it. For longer storage, this stew can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure it's completely cooled before transferring to an airtight container.

If you plan to make this stew ahead of time, I recommend preparing it without the coconut milk. You can add it during the reheating process for that fresh, creamy finish. Separating the coconut milk not only helps maintain its lovely texture but also allows the flavors to deepen with time as the stew sits.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. It pairs remarkably well with crusty bread for dipping; I love a good sourdough or a rustic whole grain bread. For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, which complements the stew’s creaminess and adds a nutritious punch.

You can also elevate the dish with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, or a drizzle of chili oil for added spice. Feeling adventurous? Add a handful of spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking to boost the nutrients and add vibrant color. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the overall flavor of the stew.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red?

Yes, but cooking times may vary. Green and brown lentils take longer to become tender.

→ Can this stew be made in advance?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to a month.

→ Is there a vegan alternative to coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or any plant-based cream, but the flavor may differ slightly.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad.