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 dried lentils, rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew, especially during the cooler months. The combination of creamy coconut milk with hearty lentils creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. I enjoy adding fresh herbs and spices to elevate the flavor, making every bowl a delightful experience. It's also a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into our diet while keeping it nutritious and filling. This stew is perfect for meal prepping or enjoying on a chilly evening with a piece of crusty bread on the side.

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-01-21T22:17:34.939Z

Every time I make this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew, I remember the first time I tried it on a rainy day. The aroma filled my kitchen, and it instantly made the atmosphere cozy. As I stirred the pot, I could see the lentils simmering, absorbing all the flavors from the spices and tomatoes. I learned that the key is to let it simmer long enough for the lentils to soften and for the flavors to deepen.

What makes this stew extra special is the creamy texture brought by the coconut milk. I love adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors. It's a simple tip that transforms the dish, making it not only delicious but also refreshing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that's perfectly comforting
Rich flavor from tomatoes and spices with a hint of coconut
Great for make-ahead meals or a quick weeknight dinner

Understanding Lentils

Choosing the right type of lentils is crucial for this stew. I recommend using green or brown lentils, as they hold their shape well during cooking and provide a hearty texture. Red lentils, while quicker to cook, tend to breakdown and create a mushier consistency, which may alter the desired outcome of this creamy stew.

Be sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly before using them. This not only removes any dirt but also helps to eliminate any debris or unwanted stones. Skipping this step might lead to unwanted crunch in your stew, which is certainly not the comfort food experience we’re looking for.

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk adds a luxurious creaminess to the stew that balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for a richer texture; light versions may compromise the creamy quality. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, oat milk can work in a pinch, though the flavor will differ slightly.

When you stir in the coconut milk, pay attention to the simmer. A gentle heat allows the flavors to meld without making the stew too greasy. This final five-minute simmer is key for properly integrating the coconut milk, so plan to stir occasionally until you see a slight bubbling at the edges.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishing with fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the stew’s rich flavors. If cilantro isn’t your favorite, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lime juice can brighten the dish just as effectively. Consider adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta for an extra layer of creaminess.

This stew is incredibly versatile in terms of serving options. I often enjoy it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce, but it’s also fantastic with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it over roasted sweet potatoes for an added layer of flavor.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the diced onion, carrot, and celery for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Lentils and Spices

Stir in the rinsed lentils, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to coat the lentils with the spices.

Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, then add the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Stir in Coconut Milk

Once the lentils are soft, stir in the coconut milk and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over rice.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this stew by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen over time, offering a delightful eating experience on subsequent days.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew in portioned glass containers or freezer bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if it appears too thick.

Spice Adjustments

The combination of cumin and smoked paprika lends a warm depth to the stew, but feel free to adjust the spices to suit your palate. If you’re looking for a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables. Start small, as you can always add more later.

For a Mediterranean twist, try adding Italian herbs like oregano and thyme in place of or alongside the cumin. This alternative not only changes the flavor profile but also pairs beautifully with the tomatoes. Just remember that the nature of spices can significantly alter the final taste, so adjust with caution.

Common Troubleshooting

If, at any point, you find that your stew has become too thick, don't panic! Just add more vegetable broth or a bit of water gradually until you reach your desired consistency. It's easier to thin it out than to fix an overly watery stew, so add liquid slowly and taste as you go.

If you notice that your stew lacks flavor, it might benefit from a pinch of salt or a splash of acid like lemon juice or vinegar. This can brighten the dish and enhance the overall harmony of flavors, especially if the coconut milk has dulled the taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, if using canned lentils, skip the simmering step and simply add them in when you add the coconut milk.

→ How long will the stew last in the refrigerator?

The stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this a wonderful option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.