This comforting lentil stew served over creamy mashed potatoes is the perfect nourishing meal for chilly evenings or any time you crave a wholesome, satisfying dish. Featuring plant-based protein, earthy vegetables, and rich seasoning, it delivers both nutrition and comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a deliciously hearty and healthy alternative to traditional meat-based stews. It’s entirely plant-based, filling, and budget-friendly. The combination of tender lentils, vegetables, and savory herbs simmered together, then served over smooth mashed potatoes, creates a warm and complete meal that’s ideal for weeknights or meal prep.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the lentil stew:

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 celery stalk, chopped
1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the mashed potatoes:

4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup plant-based milk or cream
2 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil
Salt to taste

directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Stir in tomato paste, thyme, paprika, and rinsed lentils. Cook for 2 minutes to combine flavors.
Add vegetable broth and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30–35 minutes or until lentils are tender.
Add green peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf.
Meanwhile, boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes and mash with plant-based milk, vegan butter, and salt until creamy.
Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates and ladle the lentil stew on top. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the stew for a warming kick.
Add greens: Stir in chopped kale or spinach at the end of cooking for extra nutrients.
Use red lentils: Substitute with red lentils for a quicker-cooking stew with a softer texture.
Make it richer: Stir in a spoonful of nutritional yeast or soy sauce for added umami flavor.
Add mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with the vegetables for a deeper, earthy taste.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the lentil stew and mashed potatoes separately on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore the original texture. This dish is also freezer-friendly—freeze the stew and mashed potatoes separately for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time and add them after the vegetables have softened to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best type of potato for mashing?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for smooth, creamy mashed potatoes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, both components can be made in advance and reheated just before serving.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely plant-based when using vegan butter and plant-based milk.

How do I prevent the stew from getting too thick?

Add a bit more vegetable broth or water as it simmers to reach your desired consistency.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

What can I substitute for tomato paste?

Use a few tablespoons of canned crushed tomatoes or tomato puree if needed.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes, mashed sweet potatoes pair beautifully with the earthy lentil stew.

Does this freeze well?

Yes, both the lentil stew and mashed potatoes freeze well. Store them in separate containers.

Can I make this oil-free?

Yes, sauté the vegetables in a splash of water or broth instead of oil.

Conclusion

Hearty Lentil Stew with Mashed Potatoes is a nourishing, filling, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking for a comforting, protein-rich dish. With simple ingredients and satisfying textures, it’s a reliable go-to for cold evenings, meal prep, or family dinners. This wholesome combination is sure to earn a regular spot in your kitchen rotation.