Subpolar Vegetable and Lentil Stew with Smoked Paprika

By · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

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 (vegan) ready in about 60 minutes pairs rinsed brown lentils, chopped celery stalks, large, diced yellow onion 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Subpolar Vegetable and Lentil Stew with Smoked Paprika take to make?

Total time is about 60 minutes (15 min prep + 45 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Subpolar Vegetable and Lentil Stew with Smoked Paprika?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep rinsed brown lentils from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Subpolar Vegetable and Lentil Stew with Smoked Paprika?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Subpolar Vegetable and Lentil Stew with Smoked Paprika for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Subpolar Vegetable and Lentil Stew with Smoked Paprika vegan?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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