Subpolar Vegetable and Lentil Stew with Smoked Paprika

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-06 · Updated 2026-06-06

A hearty, warming stew combining earthy lentils and root vegetables seasoned with smoky paprika, inspired by the robust flavors needed to brave polar climates. This Mediterranean-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 60 minutes, pairs brown lentils, carrots, parsnip for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 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, rinsed brown lentils
• 2 medium, diced into 1/2-inch cubes carrots
• 1 medium, diced into 1/2-inch cubes parsnip
• 2, chopped celery stalks
• 1 large, diced yellow onion
• 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 large diced yellow onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 chopped celery stalks, 2 diced carrots, and 1 diced parsnip. Sauté for 8 minutes until vegetables soften and onions become translucent.
2. Step 2: Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tsp cumin powder. Cook for 2 minutes until the spices are fragrant and coat the vegetables.
3. Step 3: Add 1 cup rinsed brown lentils and 4 cups vegetable broth to the pot. Season with 1 1/2 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until lentils and vegetables are tender and stew thickens.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread.