01 -
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 large yellow onion, diced, 2 stalks celery, diced, and 2 medium carrots, diced. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
02 -
Add 12 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced, to the pot. Increase heat slightly and cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and begin to brown. This builds a rich base for your Hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew with 18g Protein.
03 -
Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 1/4 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed. Cook for 1 minute, then pour in 6 cups vegetable broth and add 1 bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
04 -
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow simmer is key to developing the deep flavors of your Hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew with 18g Protein.
05 -
Stir in 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, and 1 tbsp tamari (or soy sauce). Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
06 -
Remove the bay leaf. Stir in 1 tbsp red wine vinegar. Ladle the Hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew with 18g Protein into bowls. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, before serving warm.