Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils, rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love the comforting warmth of a good stew, and this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew is one of my favorites. It combines hearty lentils with rich tomatoes and a splash of cream for an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. Not only is it packed with flavors, but it's also surprisingly easy to prepare. This recipe invites you to enjoy both the vibrant colors and the mouthwatering aroma that wafts through the kitchen while it simmers. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:37:24.799Z

When I first stumbled upon this creamy tomato lentil stew, I was in search of a warm, fulfilling dish that could double as both comfort food and a nutritious option. The method of using lentils as a base allows for a thick, hearty texture that really satisfies.

While experimenting with spices, I discovered that a hint of smoked paprika elevates the stew’s flavor profile wonderfully. I also love to serve it with crusty bread, which is perfect for soaking up every drop of that delicious sauce!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that’s incredibly satisfying
Packed with protein and fiber from lentils
Perfectly balanced spices that warm you from within
Easily customizable with seasonal vegetables

      

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Lentils

To achieve perfectly tender lentils in this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew, it's important to use red lentils, as they cook faster and break down into a creamy consistency. Unlike green or brown lentils, which maintain their shape, red lentils will thicken the stew, giving it a nice body. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding to the pot to remove any dust or impurities, which can impact the flavor and texture of your stew.

During the simmering process, keep an eye on the liquid level. If the stew appears too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to maintain a desirable consistency. Conversely, if it's too soupy, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few additional minutes to evaporate excess liquid. This technique helps ensure the stew maintains a rich, creamy texture that envelops the lentils beautifully.

Ingredient Insights

The use of coconut milk is key in this recipe, lending a subtle sweetness and richness that complements the acidity of the tomatoes. If you're looking for a lower-fat alternative, consider using unsweetened almond milk or another plant-based milk, but be aware that the flavor will be less robust. If you enjoy the spice, a hint of curry powder can be added alongside the paprika for an interesting twist.

Fresh basil plays a vital role in brightening the stew's overall flavor upon serving. If fresh basil isn’t available, I recommend using a small amount of dried basil during cooking and then adding fresh parsley or cilantro as a garnish for a refreshing finish that uplifts the creamy base. Experimenting with herbs can add depth, so don’t hesitate to try other options based on what you have on hand.

Make Ahead and Customizing Your Stew

This Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew is an excellent dish for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors meld together beautifully, often tasting even better the next day. If you wish to freeze it, let the stew cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to three months; just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated thoroughly.

Customization is one of the beauties of this stew. Feel free to add your favorite seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and color. Add these ingredients during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft. You can also adjust the spices to your taste, maybe adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or a dash of lemon juice for brightness. This flexibility allows you to enjoy it differently each time!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious, hearty stew.

Stew Ingredients

1 cup red lentils, rinsed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil for garnish

These are the essentials for creating a sumptuous stew!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your creamy tomato lentil stew.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Add Spices and Lentils

Stir in the smoked paprika, oregano, and rinsed lentils. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the spices.

Combine with Tomatoes and Broth

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

Finish with Coconut Milk

Once the lentils are tender, stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to simmer for another 5 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy warm with bread!

And just like that, your hearty stew is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. This stew also freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal!

Serving Suggestions

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the creamy goodness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of yogurt can add richness if you don't mind dairy. For a festive touch, top with caramelized onions or toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.

For those looking to enhance the nutritional profile even further, serve the stew over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. This not only rounds out the meal but adds a beautiful contrast in texture to the creamy lentil base, making each bite a delightful experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your stew turns out too thick after cooking, don’t worry! Simply add a little more broth or water until you achieve your desired consistency. Gradually stir in the liquid as you slowly heat the stew, so that you maintain enough time for the flavors to meld once again.

On the other hand, if you encounter undercooked lentils, it’s likely due to insufficient simmering. Allow the stew to cook for an additional 5–10 minutes while covered until the lentils are soft. You can also check the seasoning once the dish is completed, as adding a pinch of salt can enhance flavor significantly, especially if you’ve added more liquid.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Make sure to rinse and soak them thoroughly before adding them to the stew.

→ How can I make this stew vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it fully vegetarian.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, kale, or any other favorite vegetables to enhance the nutrition and flavor.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this stew are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.