Are you looking for a way to add some excitement to your meal routine without sacrificing flavor or nutrition? Look no further than lentils! These tiny, nutrient-packed legumes are the perfect addition to any slow cooker recipe. With their mild flavor and versatility, lentils can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from hearty stews and soups to flavorful curries and chilies.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious lentil crockpot recipes that are perfect for busy days. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired flavors, there’s something on this list for everyone. So whether you’re a seasoned slow cooker pro or just looking for some new ideas, keep reading to discover the many wonders of lentils in the crockpot.
Spicy Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty stew combines the comforting warmth of sweet potatoes with the protein-rich goodness of lentils, all wrapped up in a spicy blanket of aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sweet potatoes, lentils, garlic, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry
A comforting and aromatic curry that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the hearty goodness of red lentils, all wrapped up in a flavorful blend of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook 1 minute.
3. Add lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lentil Soup
This hearty and aromatic soup is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, combining the comforting warmth of lentils with the exotic flavors of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Coconut Curry
This comforting curry is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, colorful vegetables, and creamy coconut milk. A flavorful and nutritious meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, zucchini)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
2. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and cook, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoky Lentil Chili with Kale
Warm up on a chilly day with this hearty and flavorful Smoky Lentil Chili with Kale. This recipe is perfect for a comforting meal that’s also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chopped kale leaves
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in chopped kale leaves; cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlicky Lentil and Spinach Stew
A hearty, flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the garlic and onion in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Tomato Basil Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil. It’s an ideal option for a quick and comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, water, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in chopped basil leaves and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Lentil and Carrot Stew
Warm up with this nutritious and flavorful stew, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, carrots, thyme, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Lentil and Butternut Squash Stew
Warm up with this hearty and comforting Lentil and Butternut Squash Stew, perfect for a cozy evening meal. This flavorful stew is packed with nutritious ingredients, including red lentils, sweet butternut squash, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the cubed butternut squash, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Curried Lentil and Chickpea Stew
This flavorful and nutritious stew is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices, lentils, and chickpeas, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. With its aromatic curry flavors and tender texture, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lentils, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
Lentil and Quinoa Vegetable Soup
A hearty and nutritious soup that combines the protein-rich properties of lentils with the fiber-packed goodness of quinoa, all wrapped up in a flavorful vegetable broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, quinoa, water or broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and quinoa are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Mushroom Barley Stew
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and nutritious stew, packed with tender lentils, earthy mushrooms, and nutty barley. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, barley, water or broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Lentil and Kale Coconut Curry
This vegan-friendly curry is a flavorful and nutritious meal option that combines the comfort of lentils with the earthy taste of kale. Perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium kale leaf, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. In a separate pan, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
3. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in coconut milk, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked lentils with the kale mixture and simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Coconut Stew
A nutritious and flavorful stew that combines the comfort of lentils with the nutrition of spinach, all wrapped up in a rich coconut broth.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups water
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the lentils, water, diced tomatoes, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in the shredded coconut and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lentil and Sweet Corn Chowder
This comforting chowder is a perfect blend of tender lentils, sweet corn, and aromatic spices. Serve it with some crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen sweet corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, water or broth, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the frozen sweet corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until thawed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Cabbage Coconut Soup
Lentil and Cabbage Coconut Soup: A nourishing and flavorful soup that combines the earthy taste of lentils with the sweetness of cabbage, all wrapped up in a creamy coconut broth. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium cabbage, shredded
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. Add onion, garlic, and cabbage to the pot. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in coconut milk, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer soup for 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Lentil and Roasted Red Pepper Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the sweet, smoky flavor of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and roasted red peppers to the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Zucchini Coconut Curry
Lentil and Zucchini Coconut Curry: A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the richness of coconut milk with the comforting warmth of lentils and zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, zucchinis, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and easy-to-make recipes for busy days? Look no further! This article features 18 flavorful lentil crockpot recipes that are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. From spicy stews to creamy curries, these recipes showcase the versatility of lentils in various cuisines. With ingredients like sweet potatoes, coconut milk, kale, and more, you’ll find a recipe to suit your taste buds. Simply toss all the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work for you. Perfect for busy days or meal prep, these recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
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