Iran Daily Village Life: Baking Bread & Cooking Lentil Stew with Grandma

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Avocado oil offers healthy fats while sunflower oil is more budget-friendly.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasonings

Homemade broth is healthier and more flavorful.

potatoes

🥗Healthier: sweet potatoes

💰Cheaper: carrots

Sweet potatoes add nutrients and flavor, while carrots are often cheaper.

cumin

🥗Healthier: ground coriander

💰Cheaper: caraway seeds

Ground coriander provides a similar flavor profile with health benefits.

Rinse lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add diced carrots and celery; cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.

Incorporate diced potatoes and tomatoes; mix well.

Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

Add lentils, cumin, turmeric, paprika, and bay leaves; stir to combine.

Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Remove bay leaves before serving.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: