Looking for a tasty, nutritious alternative to meat? Look no further! This Lentils with Cabbage recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and health benefits. Perfect for those who are vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to reduce their meat intake, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by prepping all your ingredients. Rinse and drain the lentils, thinly slice the cabbage, and chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Carrots and Celery:
- Toss in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Incorporate the Cabbage:
- Add the sliced cabbage to the pot, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly.
- Combine Lentils and Tomatoes:
- Add the lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir in the bay leaf, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or spices.
- Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the lentils and cabbage into bowls, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips:
- Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to make this dish even more vibrant.
- Protein Boost: For added protein, you can stir in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas.
- Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Enjoy this hearty and wholesome Lentils with Cabbage recipe as a satisfying meal on its own or as a side dish. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based eating without compromising on taste!
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