Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen

I absolutely adore this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew, which has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of creamy texture and rich tomato flavor creates a delightful comfort dish that warms the soul. With the addition of lentils, it not only satisfies my taste buds but also provides a hearty meal packed with protein and nutrients. Whether it's a chilly evening or just a day when I need some cozy food, this stew always comes to the rescue, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:53:34.969Z

When I first made this stew, I was taken aback by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. I experimented with the spices, and the combination of cumin and smoked paprika truly elevated the dish. I recommend using fresh herbs whenever possible for a bright finish that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy base. Witnessing the lentils absorb the flavors as they cook is magical!

This stew has become a go-to during meal prep because it keeps well in the fridge for days. I often double the recipe to ensure I have leftovers for quick lunches. The creaminess comes from blending a portion of the cooked lentils into the stew, creating a velvety texture that you'll love. Try it with crusty bread for dipping!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that warms the soul
Rich tomato flavor with a hint of spice
Packed with protein and nutrients from lentils

The Heart of the Stew: Lentils

Lentils are the star ingredient in this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew, providing both texture and nutrition. I recommend using green or brown lentils for this recipe, as they hold their shape well during cooking while offering a slightly earthy flavor. Red lentils can also be used for a quicker cook time; however, they tend to break down and create a thicker stew. Cooking lentils correctly is crucial: be sure to rinse them to remove any impurities and check for stones.

As you simmer the lentils, they will absorb the fragrant spices and tomatoes, creating a luxurious flavor profile. If you find the stew is too thick or the lentils are in danger of sticking to the bottom of the pot, don’t hesitate to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to maintain the desired consistency. Meanwhile, keep an eye on them, as overcooked lentils can become mushy.

Elevating Flavor with Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the secret to achieving that creamy texture you’ll fall in love with in this stew. It provides a rich, velvety mouthfeel that balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. When adding coconut milk, consider opting for full-fat for the best creaminess; however, light coconut milk works if you want a lower-calorie option. Just bear in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.

Before stirring in the coconut milk, be mindful of the heat level. Reduce the heat to low after adding it to avoid boiling, which can cause curdling. This gentle approach allows the coconut flavor to meld seamlessly with the tomatoes and spices, enriching every bite of your stew.

Perfect Pairings and Variations

This Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew can be paired with various sides to enhance your meal. I suggest serving it with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. A side salad with a bright vinaigrette can also add a refreshing contrast to the rich stew. For those wanting to elevate the dish, try adding some sautéed greens like spinach or kale right before serving for added nutrition.

Feel free to customize the flavors to your liking! You can add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a kick. For a more complex flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Experimentation can lead to new discoveries, so don't hesitate to make this stew your own.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a warm bowl of creamy goodness:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a deliciously creamy stew that you’ll love!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your creamy tomato lentil stew:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Lentils

Add the crushed tomatoes, rinsed lentils, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Stir in Coconut Milk

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or over cooked rice.

Enjoy your warming bowl of creamy tomato lentil stew!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process. This stew also freezes well—just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is perfect for batch cooking! You can make a large pot and store leftovers for up to five days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore creaminess. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

If you want to store it longer, consider freezing the stew in individual portions. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making this stew is overcooked lentils, which can lead to a mushy texture. To prevent this, keep an eye on the time during the simmering phase; taste the lentils at about 20 minutes in to ensure they are still firm but tender. You want them to be pleasantly chewy without disintegrating.

Another potential mishap is the stew becoming too thick or overly seasoned. If it thickens more than desired, add a bit more vegetable broth or water. If you've accidentally over-seasoned, a splash of coconut milk or a bit of sugar can help balance the flavors.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to scale the recipe for a larger gathering, it's straightforward. Simply double or triple the ingredients, maintaining the same cooking times. Just be sure your pot is large enough to hold the increased volume. Cooking in batches is an option as well; sometimes it's easier to manage multiple pots rather than trying to cram everything into one.

For smaller servings, you can easily halve the recipe. Just make sure to adjust the ratios correctly, and keep an eye on the cooking times of the lentils as they may differ slightly. Whatever your needs, this recipe is flexible and adaptable!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, you can use green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary. Red lentils will cook faster and create a thicker texture.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

If you prefer, you can use heavy cream or a milk alternative, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

→ How long does this stew keep in the fridge?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it perfect for meal prep.