lentil and chicken sausage stew

Are you ready for a cozy, hearty dish that warms you up from the inside out? I’m excited to share my Lentil and Chicken Sausage Stew recipe wiht you! It’s packed with flavor, super easy to make, and perfect for chilly days. Plus, who doesn’t love a stew that tastes even better the next day? Let’s get cooking!

Simple Ingredients for Appetizing Lentil and Chicken Sausage Stew

Getting the right ingredients is key to making a comforting and hearty Lentil and Chicken Sausage Stew. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

• 3 cups water – This will help cook the lentils and create a flavorful base.
• 1 ½ cups dry brown lentils, rinsed and drained – Lentils are packed with protein and add creaminess to the stew.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – A healthy fat that enhances the flavor of the sautéed vegetables.
• ½ large yellow onion, diced – The onion adds depth and sweetness.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings an aromatic and savory kick.
• 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided – This is essential for a rich, savory taste without too much salt.
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric – This adds a warm color and earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – cumin provides a warm, slightly nutty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder – For a touch of spice and depth.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adjust to taste if you prefer more or less heat.
• 3 medium plum tomatoes, diced – Fresh tomatoes add brightness and acidity.
• 5 links pre-cooked chicken sausage, cut into 1-inch cubes – I love using chicken sausage for its flavor and convenience, but feel free to choose your favorite type!

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to making a wonderfully satisfying stew that warms the soul.

Step-by-Step Instructions for making Lentil and Chicken Sausage Stew

Let’s jump into the cooking process! Here’s how to whip up this hearty Lentil and Chicken Sausage Stew:

1. Cook the Lentils:

– In a medium pot, bring the 3 cups of water to a boil.
– Add the rinsed lentils. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the lentils are soft.

1. Create the Lentil Puree:

– Once the lentils are soft, puree them into a thick paste using a food processor or blender. This will give the stew a creamy texture.

1. Sauté the aromatics:

– in a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
– Add the diced onion and minced garlic.cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

1. Add Spices and Tomatoes:

– Pour in ¼ cup of chicken broth and continue to cook until the onion starts to soften,about 2 minutes.
– Now, add the turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the mixture turns a lovely orange hue.
– Add the diced tomatoes and another ½ cup of broth, cover, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes.

1. Combine and Simmer:

– Pour in the remaining broth and gradually stir in the lentil puree until fully mixed. The stew should be thick and creamy.
– add the chicken sausage cubes. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Your delicious, warming Lentil and Chicken Sausage Stew is just about ready! Keep an eye on it while it simmers, and soon enough, you’ll be ready to serve this delightful dish.

Serving and Storage data for Lentil and Chicken Sausage Stew

Once your Lentil and Chicken Sausage Stew is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! This hearty dish is perfect for serving warm, making it an excellent comfort meal. Here are some helpful tips for serving and storing:

• Serving Suggestions:

– This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. You might also consider a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream on top for a creamy contrast.
– I love to garnish it with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.

• Storage Instructions:

– If you have leftovers, let the stew cool fully before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
– For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. divide it into portion-sized containers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

• Reheating Tips:

– when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up, as it may thicken in the fridge or freezer. Heat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

This stew’s flavor often improves after a day in the fridge, as the spices have time to meld. It’s a fantastic meal prep option for busy days!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Lentil and Chicken Sausage Stew

Making the perfect Lentil and Chicken Sausage stew can be straightforward, but here are some notes and troubleshooting tips to ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Ingredient Variations:

– You can easily customize this recipe by swapping the chicken sausage for your favorite protein. Turkey sausage, spicy sausage, or even plant-based options work well in this stew.
– Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots, spinach, or kale for more nutrition and color. Just adjust cooking times to accommodate the added ingredients.

• Cooking Consistency:

– If your lentils aren’t cooking as expected, check the heat. Make sure you’re simmering gently. Cooking too quickly can lead to uneven tenderness.
– For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the lentils against the pot to incorporate them into the broth. If it’s too thick, a splash of broth or water will help.

• Flavor Adjustments:

– taste your stew before serving, and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors.
– if you prefer it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce during cooking.

With these notes and tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a delightful stew that’s right for you. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own!