Ham Onion Lentil Stew

There's something deeply satisfying about a one-pot meal that brings together smoky ham, earthy lentils, and sweet caramelized onions into a hearty stew that warms you from the inside out. This One-Pot Ham, Onion, and Lentil Stew is the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this European-inspired recipe transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a nourishing meal that tastes even better the next day.

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The magic of this stew lies in how the ingredients build upon each other. As the onions, carrots, and celery soften in olive oil, they create a flavorful base that's enhanced by aromatic garlic and smoky paprika. The diced ham adds a savory depth, while the lentils absorb all those wonderful flavors as they simmer to tender perfection. Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Meats: 250 g (about 9 oz) cooked ham, diced
• Legumes: 250 g (1¼ cups) dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
• Vegetables: 2 medium onions, finely chopped; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Liquids: 1.2 L (5 cups) low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock
• Spices & Seasonings: 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp dried thyme; ½ tsp smoked paprika; salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Finishing: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the vegetables

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6–8 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add the garlic

Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the ham

Add the diced ham and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine and simmer

Add the lentils, bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, stock, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil.

Step 5: Cook the stew

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the flavors meld.

Step 6: Final adjustments

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, make sure to rinse your lentils thoroughly before adding them to the pot to remove any debris. Don't skip the step of sautéing the vegetables first—this caramelization process builds a deeper, more complex flavor foundation for your stew. If you find the stew becoming too thick as it simmers, simply add a splash more stock to reach your desired consistency. Remember that lentils will continue to absorb liquid as they sit, so the stew will thicken further upon standing.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This versatile stew adapts beautifully to different dietary preferences and ingredient availability. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use extra vegetables or smoked tofu to maintain that savory depth. You can substitute green lentils with brown or Puy lentils if preferred—just note that cooking times may vary slightly. For added richness, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage can replace the thyme for a different aromatic profile.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread for dipping and soaking up all the flavorful broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich, savory stew. For a complete meal, pair it with roasted root vegetables or a side of steamed greens. This stew also makes excellent leftovers—store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of stock if needed to loosen the consistency.

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This One-Pot Ham, Onion, and Lentil Stew proves that simple ingredients, when treated with care and combined thoughtfully, can create something truly special. Whether you're cooking for family, meal prepping for the week ahead, or simply craving a bowl of comfort, this stew delivers on all fronts. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its delicious flavor, but in its forgiving nature and ability to bring people together around the table. Make it once, and it's sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different types of lentils in this stew?

Yes, brown or green lentils work well as they hold their shape during cooking. You can also try Puy lentils for a firmer texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the ham and add extra vegetables or smoked tofu to maintain a rich, smoky flavor profile.

→ What spices enhance the flavor of this stew?

Bay leaf, dried thyme, and smoked paprika provide aromatic and slightly smoky notes that complement the ham and lentils.

→ Is this stew suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, when using certified gluten-free stock, this dish fits well into a gluten-free meal plan.

→ What side dishes pair well with this stew?

Crusty bread or a simple green salad works great to balance the hearty, savory flavors of the stew.

→ How long does it take to prepare and cook this meal?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, followed by around 50 minutes of simmering for optimal tenderness and blending of flavors.