Slow Cooker Sausage and Lentil Stew
Looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Sausage and Lentil Stew is the perfect comfort food for those busy days when you need a delicious meal ready to enjoy when you get home!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup dried green lentils
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown the sausage slices over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
- Place the browned sausage, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, lentils, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper in a slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir well before serving, and enjoy hot!
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Carbs: 30g
Protein: 22g
Fiber: 8g
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
- Q: Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
- Q: Can I add additional vegetables to this stew?
A: You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey or chicken sausage, to suit your taste preferences.
A: Yes, you can use canned lentils, but reduce the cooking time accordingly as they are already cooked.
A: Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to amp up the nutritional content.
Helpful tips:
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
- To make this stew more filling, serve it over cooked rice or quinoa.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the lentils against the side of the slow cooker before serving.
Expert Secrets:
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked sausage instead of Italian sausage.
- To make this stew more spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.