Volumetric Mixed Concrete-Inspired Spiced Lentil Stew

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-31 · Updated 2026-07-31

A hearty, rich lentil stew with layered spices and a velvety texture, inspired by the precision and freshness of on-site mixed concrete preparation. This Mediterranean-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 50 minutes, pairs red lentils, water, olive oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 250 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 red lentils
• 4 cups water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium, finely chopped onion
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 large, diced carrot
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 1 cup red lentils under cold water until water runs clear, then drain.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Step 3: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add 2 tbsp tomato paste and 1 large diced carrot, stirring to coat the vegetables and spices, cooking for 2 minutes.
5. Step 5: Pour in 4 cups water and 2 cups vegetable broth, then add the rinsed lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until lentils and carrots are tender and stew is thickened.
6. Step 6: Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, stirring well. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
7. Step 7: Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.