01 -
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 large yellow onion, 2 stalks celery, and 2 medium carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened, building the flavor base for your Hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew.
02 -
Stir in 4 cloves minced garlic and 1 lb sliced cremini mushrooms. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and started to brown slightly.
03 -
Add 1 1/2 cups rinsed brown or green lentils and 2 tbsp tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables and lentils, cooking for 1 minute to deepen the flavors.
04 -
Pour in 6 cups vegetable broth and 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained). Add 1 tsp dried thyme, 2 bay leaves, and 1 tsp smoked paprika. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. This forms the rich base of your Hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew.
05 -
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. For the best Hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew, ensure lentils are fully cooked but not mushy.
06 -
Remove and discard the bay leaves. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the warm Hearty Vegan Lentil Mushroom Stew into bowls. Garnish each serving with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley.