One-Pot Turkish Green Lentil Stew Recipe

This one-pot Turkish green lentil stew (Mercimek Yemeği) is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with healthy green lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices, this stew is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s easy to make and can be cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into this comforting, traditional Turkish dish!

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup green lentils, rinsed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large carrot, peeled and diced

• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Why it works: Sautéing the onion and garlic helps build a flavorful base for the stew, adding depth to the dish.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Spices

Add the carrot and potato to the pot. Stir in the cumin, paprika, and turmeric, and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and release their flavors.

Why it works: The spices are key to giving this Turkish stew its signature flavor, and toasting them brings out their natural oils and aromas.

Step 3: Add the Lentils and Broth

Add the rinsed green lentils to the pot along with the vegetable or chicken broth and bay leaf. Stir in the tomato paste and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.

Why it works: The lentils and vegetables absorb the rich flavors from the spices and broth as they cook, making the stew hearty and flavorful. The long simmer allows the ingredients to meld together perfectly.

Step 4: Adjust the Flavor

Once the lentils are tender, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for added brightness.

Why it works: The lemon juice balances the earthy flavors of the lentils and vegetables, giving the stew a fresh and zesty finish.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve the stew hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. You can also add a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess and a cooling contrast to the spices.

Why it works: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, while yogurt complements the rich flavors of the stew with its creamy texture.

Final Thoughts: A Comforting, Nutritious Meal

This one-pot Turkish green lentil stew is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making it both healthy and satisfying. Plus, with only one pot to clean, it’s a great weeknight meal!