Slow-Simmered Syrian Lentil and Tomato Stew

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-31 · Updated 2026-05-31

A hearty, fragrant lentil stew simmered with tomatoes, garlic, and warming Syrian spices, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal. This Middle Eastern-inspired vegan recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 55 minutes, pairs brown lentils, olive oil, onion for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 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 brown lentils
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium, diced onion
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 1 cup brown lentils under cold water until water runs clear. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and beginning to soften.
3. Step 3: Add 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika to the pot. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Stir in 14 oz canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the rinsed lentils. Pour in 4 cups vegetable broth, then season with 1 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
5. Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer gently for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and the stew thickens.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for brightness before serving warm.