Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew, especially during cozy evenings when I crave something warm and hearty. The balance of flavors, with the tartness of tomatoes and the earthiness of lentils, creates a comforting dish that feels indulgent without being overly rich. The creamy texture is achieved with a splash of coconut milk, which I find elevates the stew and makes it truly satisfying. It's a simple yet filling meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:28:20.516Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly it all came together while still delivering on flavor. The combination of lentils and tomatoes not only ensures a nutritious meal but also satisfies those cravings for something comforting. I adapted the recipe to include coconut milk for that velvety richness you just can't resist!

One important tip I learned is to let the stew simmer a little longer after adding the coconut milk; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The addition of fresh herbs at the end also elevates the dish, leaving every bowl bursting with flavor.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
Rich flavor profile with a touch of spice
Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner

      

Ingredient Insights

The lentils in this stew are not only a fantastic source of protein and fiber but also play a crucial role in creating the stew's comforting texture. Green or brown lentils hold their shape better than red lentils, making them the perfect choice for a dish that should feel hearty. Rinsing the lentils helps remove any debris and can enhance their flavor, ensuring that the final dish is clean and wholesome.

Coconut milk adds a rich creaminess that complements the acidity of the diced tomatoes beautifully. When selecting coconut milk, I recommend opting for a full-fat variety to achieve a luscious texture. The creaminess from the coconut helps balance the spices, allowing the cumin and paprika to shine without being overpowering. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you could use light coconut milk, but the stew may be less indulgent.

Cooking Tips and Techniques

Sautéing the onions and carrots adequately is essential for developing a depth of flavor in this stew. Aim to cook them until they are soft and slightly translucent, which should take about 5 minutes over medium heat. This step unlocks their natural sweetness and forms the flavor base for the dish. If the veggies begin to brown too much, reduce the heat to prevent burning and stirring often can help achieve an even cook.

When incorporating liquids, it's crucial to bring the stew to a boil initially. This helps the lentils cook evenly and ensures that they absorb the flavors of the broth and tomatoes. After reducing the heat to let it simmer, check the stew occasionally to stir and make sure everything is cooking together harmoniously. If the stew becomes too thick, a splash of vegetable broth or water can help restore the desired consistency.

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew

Main Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Feel free to adjust the spices and garnish to suit your palate!

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrot, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Lentils and Spices

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together for about 2 minutes to allow the spices to toast.

Incorporate Liquids

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Finish with Coconut Milk

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the coconut milk, and let the stew simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot. Enjoy this creamy delight!

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew is a fantastic make-ahead option, as its flavors deepen over time. I recommend preparing it one day in advance and storing it in the refrigerator. The next day, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much.

If you want to freeze the stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat gently on the stove until heated through. This way, you can enjoy a cozy meal even on the busiest days.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice. The added grains will enhance the dish's heartiness and provide extra nutrients. For some added crunch, consider topping your bowl with toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons for texture contrast.

If you're looking to add some greens to your meal, a simple side salad can complement the stew wonderfully. A fresh arugula or spinach salad dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy stew. Additionally, serving with crusty bread for dipping will make your meal perfectly satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead?

Yes, if you're short on time, you can use canned lentils. Just reduce cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! It uses coconut milk and plant-based ingredients, making it a great vegan option.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew is delicious on its own or served with crusty bread, rice, or a simple salad.