Looking for a hearty, affordable meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients? This lentil stew recipe has you covered! Perfect for chilly evenings or quick weekday dinners, this dish combines simple ingredients into a warm, flavorful meal that serves 4–6 people—all without breaking the bank.
Not only is this stew delicious and versatile, but it’s also a great way to stretch your grocery budget while ensuring everyone at the table leaves satisfied. With a total cost of around £3.30, this recipe costs less than £1 per serving—an absolute win for frugal cooking enthusiasts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Affordable Ingredients: The humble lentil shines in this dish, proving that eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive.
- Nutrient-Packed: Lentils are rich in protein and fiber, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Customizable: Got some spare veggies lying around? Toss them in! This stew is flexible enough to work with whatever you have on hand.
- Quick Prep: Just 15 minutes of prep time, and the rest is hands-off simmering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting stew:
- 1 cup dried lentils (any variety)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
- 1 tin of chopped tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable stock (or water + stock cube)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or mixed herbs
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Lentil Stew
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, delicious stew ready in no time!
- Prepare the Lentils:
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly in cold water. Set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add the diced carrots, potatoes, and any other sturdy vegetables, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Add Lentils and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the rinsed lentils, chopped tomatoes, and spices (thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper).
- Simmer:
- Pour in the vegetable stock, stir well, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Add Frozen Veggies:
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas or green beans. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy it as-is, or pair it with crusty bread for a more filling meal.

Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: Want a protein boost? Toss in diced chicken, chickpeas, or even tofu for a heartier version.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili powder, curry powder, or your favorite spice blend for a unique twist.
- Use What You Have: This recipe is perfect for using up extra veggies in your fridge. Try courgettes, parsnips, or sweet potatoes for a seasonal variation.
Why Lentils?
Lentils are a powerhouse ingredient that deserves a spot in every pantry. They’re incredibly versatile, budget-friendly, and an excellent source of protein, iron, and fiber. Plus, they cook quickly, making them a go-to choice for busy weeknight meals.
What’s your favorite way to cook lentils? Let us know in the comments below!