Slow Cooker Hearty Lentil and Sweet Potato Comfort Stew

• 1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for mild heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic into the slow cooker.
2. Add the rinsed lentils, diced sweet potatoes, sliced carrots, canned diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried thyme, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) into the slow cooker.
3. Pour the vegetable broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring the lentils and veggies are submerged in the broth.
4. Cover and cook on low heat for 6 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours until the lentils are tender and the sweet potatoes are soft.
5. Once cooked, taste and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Stir the stew well before serving.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of plain yogurt (optional). Enjoy with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
7. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Chef tips

• If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the lentils and sweet potatoes with the back of a spoon before serving.
• For added protein, stir in a can of rinsed drained chickpeas during the last hour of cooking.
• Dried red lentils can be used but will cook faster and break down more, creating a creamier texture—reduce cooking time accordingly.
• If you don't have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder can be substituted, adjusting to your preferred spice level.