Level: Easy
Total: 1 hr
Active: 15 min
Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Ingredients
3 tablespoons oil or other fat
2 pounds ground meat or sausage, optional
1 cup diced onion, shallot or leek
3 large ribs celery, sliced thin
2 carrots, cut into disks
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon your favorite ground spice
1 pound brown or green dried lentils, rinsed
1 teaspoon your favorite dried herb
2 potatoes, cut into large chunks
Splash of vinegar, any type on hand
Fried eggs, if you like, for topping
Directions
1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the oil. When hot, add the meat if using and brown for 3 to 5 minutes. Add the onions, celery, carrots, garlic and spice and cook, stirring occasionally, until starting to soften, 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Add 6 cups water and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the lentils and herb and bring to a simmer. Add the potatoes and simmer until the lentils and vegetables are tender, about 45 minutes. Add a splash of vinegar to taste and serve the stew in bowls. A fried egg on top would be delightful.
