If you’re looking for a warm, satisfying, and healthy meal that’s easy to make, this hearty lentil and turkey stew with root vegetables is the perfect choice. Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this one-pot recipe brings comfort to your table and benefits to your body.
What is Lentil and Turkey Stew?
This stew combines the earthy flavor of lentils with tender ground turkey and a variety of chunky root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. The ingredients simmer together in a rich broth seasoned with herbs and spices, creating a thick, flavorful dish that is perfect for cold nights or meal prep week.
Health Benefits of Lentil and Turkey Stew
This stew is as nutritious as it is tasty. Lentils are loaded with plant-based protein, iron, fiber, and folate. These nutrients support healthy digestion, help manage blood sugar, and provide energy throughout the day. Turkey is a lean source of high-quality protein that helps build and maintain muscle while being lower in fat compared to red meat. Root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips are naturally high in vitamins A, C, and potassium, which boost immunity and support heart health.
Precautions: If you’re on a low-sodium diet, consider using low-sodium broth or adjusting salt levels. Those with legume allergies should substitute lentils with another ingredient like quinoa or brown rice.
Hearty Lentil and Turkey Stew Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 parsnip, peeled and diced
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, parsnip, and sweet potato. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Return the cooked turkey to the pot and pour in the broth. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 30–35 minutes until lentils and vegetables are tender and the stew has thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. If needed, add more broth for a thinner consistency.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stew with a slice of crusty whole grain bread or a side salad for a balanced, filling meal. It makes excellent leftovers and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.
Conclusion
This hearty lentil and turkey stew with root vegetables is the ultimate comfort food that also supports your health goals. Easy to make in one pot, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or slow weekend meals. Full of protein, fiber, and vitamins, this recipe brings comfort and nutrition to your kitchen in every spoonful.
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