Ethiopian-Inspired Lentil and Vegetable Stew with Turmeric

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-26 · Updated 2026-04-26

A nourishing vegetarian stew combining lentils and seasonal vegetables simmered in turmeric and mild spices. This ethiopian-inspired vegetarian ready in about 60 minutes pairs green or brown lentils, carrots, diced, potatoes, peeled and diced for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 290 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 large chopped yellow onion and sauté for 6 minutes until softened and translucent.
2. Step 2: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground turmeric, and 1 tsp ground cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add 1 tbsp tomato paste and cook while stirring for 2 minutes until the paste deepens in color.
4. Step 4: Add 1 cup green or brown lentils, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced potatoes. Pour in 4 cups vegetable broth, then season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
5. Step 5: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 35-40 minutes until lentils and vegetables are tender and stew thickens.
6. Step 6: Stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro before serving to add freshness and brightness to the comforting stew.