Smoky Lentil Stew with Leeks and Potatoes (vegan)

Name: Smoky Lentil Stew with Leeks and Potatoes (vegan)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 stalks celery - finely chopped; 2 leeks - separated from green stalks and finely chopped; 4 garlic cloves - minced; 4 cups diced potatoes - from 3-4 red potatoes; ½ cup basil - finely chopped; ½ cup brown lentils; ½ cup farro; 4-6 cups vegetable broth (adjust to your thickness preference, I used 5 cups); ½ cup marinara sauce (could subbed crushed tomatoes); 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar; juice from ½ lemon; 1 tsp liquid smoke (this gives the smoky flavor); 1-2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); black pepper to taste; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; pinch cayenne or red pepper flakes

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I love soup and stews all year long but they have a certain luster in the fall and winter. This smoky lentil stew with leeks and potatoes (vegan) is my latest stew recipe and it is so good.

This stew is full of protein because it has lentils and farro. It is also so easy to make and made in one pot.

I am obsessed with lentils. For more yummy lentil recipes try my lentil burrito bowl, my thai lentil meatballs or my greek lentil meatballs.

Why you'll love this recipe

It is made with healthy ingredients and is vegan, gluten free and dairy free.
It high in plant protein and full of veggies and fiber.
No extensive cleanup for this recipe, it is made in one pot.

vegan smoky lentil stew with potatoes and leeks

Ingredients for smoky lentil stew

celery - Celery adds veggies and flavor.
leeks - Leeks add a distinctive flavor to the soup
garlic cloves - Garlic is a must have.
potatoes - Potatoes add texture and heartiness to the stew.
basil - Basil adds fresh herby flavor.
brown lentils - Brown lentils add protein.
farro - Farro adds protein and texture.
vegetable broth - Vegetable broth is our base.
marinara sauce - Marinara adds flavor.
balsamic - Balsamic adds acidity and rich umami flavor.
lemon - Lemon adds acidity.
liquid smoke - This is a must for rich smoky flavor.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions for making lentil leek and potato stew

process shot step 1 for making smoky lentil stew with leeks and potatoes

Step 1: Heat oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Add garlic, leeks and celery. Cook for about 8 minutes or until veggies have started to get translucent.

process shot step 2 for making smoky lentil stew with leeks and potatoes

Step 2: Add all remaining ingredients to the pot. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until everything else is cooked through.

process shot step 3 for making smoky lentil stew with leeks and potatoes

Step 3: Serve

Substitutions

Farro- can be subbed with rice or barley.
Dried thyme - can be subbed with italian seasoning or oregano.

Equipment

One big soup pot.

Recipe Pro-Tips

A good quality vegetable broth is key for the best tasting soup. I love pacific foods or trader joes brand broth. Kettle and fire is also good but expensive.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a leek and an onion?

Leeks are long and tubular, they also have a more subtle onion flavor.

Are potatoes healthy?

Yes! Potatoes are full of vitamins, minerals and fiber.

Where do I buy liquid smoke?

I get mine from Whole Foods, I know for a fact Amazon also carries it.

Storage instructions for lentil and farro stew with leeks and potatoes

This stew can be stored in a sealed container in your fridge for up to 5 or so days.

Other stew and soup recipes to try

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