Name: Vegetable Lentil Stew (Vegan, Gluten-Free, Healthy) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Gluten Free
Ingredients: 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 large stick of celery, diced; 2 medium potatoes, chopped into 1-inch cubes (about 3 heaped cups); 2 large carrots, sliced into rounds; 10 small brown button mushrooms, halved (optional); 2 tightly packed cups broccoli, cut into small florets; 1 packed cup dark leafy greens, like collards or spinach, thinly sliced (optional); 1 cup uncooked red lentils (soaked for 2 hours if preferred); ½ tablespoon ground dried sage; ½ tablespoon ground dried rosemary; Salt & black pepper to taste; ½ tablespoon Bragg’s soy seasoning, or soy sauce (gluten free if needed); 1 vegetable stock cube (or vegetable broth); 4 cups water

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 15 reviews

If you’re looking for a comforting, nourishing, and absolutely delicious meal that comes together effortlessly, then this Vegetable Lentil Stew (Vegan, Gluten-Free, Healthy) Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Packed with vibrant vegetables, protein-rich lentils, and aromatic herbs, this stew offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or craving a wholesome bowl of goodness, this recipe is simple, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying without any complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white marbled surface holds fresh vegetables and cooking ingredients arranged in a spread. From left to right, there is a green broccoli with a rough textured head and stalk, followed by four round brown mushrooms with soft caps. Near the bottom left, there are two large dark green cabbage leaves with visible veins. At the center, two light brown potatoes sit side by side with smooth skin. Above the potatoes, a bunch of bright green celery stalks with leaves is placed vertically. Near the top right, a yellow onion has a dry outer layer and a clear base root pattern. Next to the onion, a white bowl filled with small orange-red lentils sits. To the far right, two long orange carrots with rough skin and green stems lie side by side. In a small white dish near the top left, brown ground spices and a yellow bouillon cube rest side by side. The scene is well lit with natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Vegetable Lentil Stew (Vegan, Gluten-Free, Healthy) Recipe lies in its simple, yet essential, ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building depth of flavor, hearty texture, and stunning color that make this dish irresistible.

Onion: Finely chopped and lightly steamed to create a sweet, savory base.
Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and earthy undertone.
Potatoes: Cubed to provide a creamy, filling bite that balances the lentils.
Carrots: Sliced rounds introduce sweetness and vibrant orange color.
Brown button mushrooms (optional): For an extra layer of umami and a tender texture.
Dried sage: Ground and sprinkled in to add an aromatic, slightly peppery warmth.
Dried rosemary: Offers a fresh, piney note to brighten the stew.
Vegetable stock cube: Enhances depth and provides savory richness.
Water: The simple but vital stew base that softens everything perfectly.
Red lentils: Protein-packed and wonderfully soft when cooked, giving body and heartiness.
Broccoli florets: Bright green bursts of nutrients and crispness.
Bragg’s soy seasoning or gluten-free soy sauce: A splash of savory, salty goodness to balance flavors.
Dark leafy greens (optional): Like collards or spinach, for an added healthy punch and color contrast.
Salt and black pepper: To taste, seasoning that brings out all the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Vegetable Lentil Stew (Vegan, Gluten-Free, Healthy) Recipe

Step 1: Steam Sauté the Onion

Start by gently steam sautéing the finely chopped onion in just a splash of water over medium-high heat. This method softens the onion without any oil, allowing its natural sweetness to shine through in about 5 minutes. If the onions start sticking, simply add a bit more water to keep them tender and prevent browning.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Herbs

Once the onions are softened, stir in the diced celery, cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, mushrooms if using, ground sage, and rosemary. These ingredients layer in flavors and begin the hearty base of the stew. Let them mingle for a moment before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Incorporate Lentils, Stock, and Water

Sprinkle in the uncooked red lentils, crumble the vegetable stock cube over the top, and pour in the 4 cups of water. Bring everything to a rolling boil. Red lentils cook relatively quickly and will soak up the liquid, so don’t worry if it looks like a lot of water at this point—the stew will thicken as it simmers.

Step 4: Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom. The potatoes should be just tender when you’re ready for the next addition, adding a perfect soft bite with no mushiness.

Step 5: Add Broccoli and Continue Cooking

Stir in the small broccoli florets and cook the stew for another 8 to 10 minutes. Keep stirring from time to time so the lentils can finish cooking and break down to create that satisfying, creamy texture this recipe is known for.

Step 6: Season and Add Greens

Finish by mixing in Bragg’s soy seasoning or gluten-free soy sauce, salt, and black pepper to taste. If you like, add a packed cup of thinly sliced dark leafy greens such as collards or spinach. Cook just until the greens wilt, which adds a lovely freshness and color pop right before serving.

How to Serve Vegetable Lentil Stew (Vegan, Gluten-Free, Healthy) Recipe

A large white pot filled with a chunky stew that has three main layers: the bottom layer is a light brown broth with visible steam rising, the middle layer includes yellow potato pieces and bright orange carrot slices scattered throughout, and the top layer has green broccoli florets and leafy greens floating on the surface. A wooden spoon is stirring the stew from the left side, dipping into the middle of the pot. The pot has dark blue handles, and it sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few sprigs of thyme right on top instantly elevates this stew. The herbs add a burst of brightness and a touch of elegance to an otherwise rustic dish. You can also add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice if you want to brighten the bowl before diving in.

Side Dishes

Though this stew is quite filling on its own, it pairs beautifully with gluten-free crusty bread for dipping or a simple side of steamed rice. These additions soak up the flavorful broth and make the meal even heartier, perfect for sharing and savoring every last spoonful.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Vegetable Lentil Stew (Vegan, Gluten-Free, Healthy) Recipe in a large, rustic bowl to emphasize its homey charm. For a fun twist, ladle it into hollowed-out bread bowls or mason jars for portable lunches. Layer it over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta for a comforting twist that takes the experience to the next level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This stew keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and textures. Leftovers often taste even better the next day as the ingredients have had time to meld and deepen.

Freezing

You can freeze the stew for up to three months without losing quality. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty ziplock bags. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove to maintain its lovely texture.

Reheating

Reheat the stew on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly warm it through. Add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much in the fridge, and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

FAQs

Can I use different types of lentils for this stew?

Absolutely! While red lentils cook quickly and break down nicely for a creamy texture, you can experiment with green or brown lentils for a firmer bite. Just keep in mind these may require longer cooking times.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this Vegetable Lentil Stew (Vegan, Gluten-Free, Healthy) Recipe makes an excellent meal prep option. It stores well, tastes great reheated, and provides a balanced, filling meal perfect for busy days.

How can I make this stew spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced fresh chili when adding your herbs. A dash of smoked paprika also complements the earthiness beautifully without overpowering the dish.

Can I add other vegetables to this stew?

Of course! Feel free to swap or add seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes. Just adjust cooking times if needed to make sure everything stays tender and flavorful.

Is it important to soak the lentils beforehand?

Soaking lentils can reduce cooking time and some people find it easier to digest, but for this recipe, it is optional. Adding them directly works well since the stew simmers long enough to soften them thoroughly.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Vegetable Lentil Stew (Vegan, Gluten-Free, Healthy) Recipe a try soon. It’s a heartwarming dish that brings together simplicity, health, and incredible flavor effortlessly. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this stew is the perfect bowl of comfort food that you’ll want to make again and again.