Hearty Moroccan Lentil and Kale Stew
This flavorful Moroccan-inspired lentil and kale stew is a nourishing dish that combines the earthy richness of brown lentils with the vibrant flavors of cumin and fresh parsley. The addition of kale brings a delightful texture and a boost of nutrients, making this stew a wholesome and satisfying meal. Serve it topped with caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for a cozy evening, this recipe yields four hearty servings and can easily be adapted with different greens if desired.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
oil
1 (tablespoon)
carrots
2 (large, peeled and diced)
onion
1 (diced)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
water
7 (cups)
brown lentils
1.5 (cups)
cumin
2 (teaspoons)
black pepper
0.5 (teaspoon)
kale
2 (cups, chopped)
fresh parsley
4 (tablespoons, chopped)
salt
1 (teaspoon)
lemon
1 (juice of)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the carrots begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
2
Pour in the water and stir in the cumin and black pepper. Add the brown lentils and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3
Cover the pot and let the stew cook for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4
Stir in the chopped kale, fresh parsley, salt, and lemon juice. Continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender.
5
Taste the stew and adjust seasoning as needed before serving. Ladle into bowls and top with sautéed onions if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Moroccan Lentil and Kale Stew?
It is a nourishing, flavorful stew that combines brown lentils, kale, cumin, and fresh parsley for a wholesome meal.
Is this Moroccan lentil stew recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegetarian.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields four hearty servings.
What type of lentils are best for this stew?
The recipe specifically calls for brown lentils, which hold their shape well during simmering.
How much water is required for the stew?
You will need 7 cups of water for this recipe.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
Yes, substituting water with vegetable broth can add even more depth of flavor to the stew.
How long do the lentils need to cook?
The lentils should simmer for about 20 minutes or until they are tender.
When should I add the kale to the pot?
Add the chopped kale after the lentils have finished cooking their initial 20-minute simmer.
How long does the kale need to cook in the stew?
Cook the kale for an additional 10 minutes until it is wilted and tender.
What can I use as a substitute if I don't have kale?
You can easily adapt this recipe by using other greens like spinach or Swiss chard.
Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients listed in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
What spices are used in this Moroccan stew?
The primary spices used are 2 teaspoons of cumin and half a teaspoon of black pepper.
Does this recipe include garlic?
Yes, it includes 2 minced garlic cloves for a savory base.
What should I serve as a topping for this stew?
The recipe recommends topping the stew with caramelized or sautéed onions for an extra layer of flavor.
How much lemon juice is added to the recipe?
The juice of one whole lemon is added at the end to brighten the flavors.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
While fresh parsley provides the best flavor, you can use dried parsley, though you should reduce the amount to about one-third.
What is the role of the oil in this recipe?
One tablespoon of oil is used to sauté the onions, carrots, and garlic at the start of the cooking process.
How should the carrots be prepared?
The carrots should be peeled and diced before being added to the pot.
Is this dish considered a healthy meal?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy and nourishing due to the fiber in the lentils and the vitamins in the kale and carrots.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, lentil stews often taste even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
How should I store leftover stew?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
Can this Moroccan stew be frozen?
Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers.
Is the recipe spicy?
No, it is aromatic and flavorful from the cumin, but it does not contain spicy peppers.
How many cups of kale are needed?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of chopped kale.
How much salt should I add?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt, but you should taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
What kind of pot should I use?
A large pot or Dutch oven is ideal for preparing this stew.
Can I add other vegetables like potatoes?
Yes, you can add diced potatoes or celery during the initial sauté phase for extra texture.
What makes this stew 'Moroccan' style?
The combination of lentils, cumin, and fresh lemon juice provides the characteristic Moroccan flavor profile.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 main ingredients in this recipe.
Is the onion diced or sliced?
The recipe calls for one diced onion to be sautéed at the beginning.