When you’re aiming to manage blood sugar levels and keep mealtime both healthy and delicious, focusing on fiber is key. High-fiber meals can help you feel satisfied longer and support stable blood glucose levels. This bounty of cozy vegetables and hearty lentils is a perfect example. Let’s dig into our snappy, feel-good recipe: “Cozy Lentil & Veggie Stew.”
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by warming the olive oil in a medium pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir in the diced onion, letting it soften for about two minutes. Next, add the minced garlic, taking care not to let it burn—keep it fragrant and golden.
Toss the sliced carrots and chopped celery into the pot, stirring them around in the shimmering oil. Let them cook gently for about five minutes for a light caramelization. This step builds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Now, add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with your vegetable broth. Season with dried thyme, dried oregano, and a careful pinch of salt and pepper (you can adjust more at the end). Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and let the stew bubble away for 20–25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
A final taste test with a dash more seasoning can make all the difference here. If the stew is too thick, stir in a splash of water or additional broth. Ladle your “Cozy Lentil & Veggie Stew” into bowls and serve steaming hot.
This stew is not only high in fiber but also packed with satisfying protein and nutrients. It’s a great option for anyone seeking a flavorful, balanced meal—especially for those managing diabetes. Feel free to add your favorite non-starchy veggies (like zucchini or bell peppers), or swap in different legumes if you’d rather use chickpeas or black beans. However you customize it, be sure to enjoy every cozy spoonful!
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
