Stews are almost as old as cooking itself, and there’s no better dish for winter than a hearty stew that provides the energy we need to face cold days. A traditional stew is made with lentils, chorizo, some pork, and bacon, all flavored and seasoned with spices like sweet paprika and the classic bay leaf. Although it might seem like a complicated dish to prepare, nothing could be further from the truth. It’s simply a...
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The night before preparing the recipe, place the lentils in water to soak. This will speed up the cooking time.
Cut the pork ribs, bacon, and chorizos into pieces.
In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil and add the pork ribs, bacon, and chorizos in that order. Cook for about five minutes.
Add the lentils, bay leaf, and enough water to cover the ingredients. Cook over high heat with the pot covered, adding hot water if necessary.
In a skillet, heat a little olive oil and sauté the garlic (with the skin on), onion, bell pepper, and tomato. Season with sweet paprika. Cook for five minutes.
Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the lentils.
If desired, when there are about 20 minutes left of cooking, add a large potato cut into cubes. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt if necessary.
Cook for approximately an hour and a half until both the meat and lentils are tender.
Soaking the lentils overnight helps reduce cooking time and ensures they cook evenly.
Use hot water when adding more liquid to the stew to maintain the cooking temperature.
For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of black pepper or a sprig of fresh thyme.
Serve the stew in individual bowls for a cozy presentation.
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils, but you won't need to soak them overnight. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as canned lentils are already cooked.
Can I substitute chorizo with another type of sausage?
Yes, you can use another type of sausage, but chorizo adds a distinct flavor to the stew that complements the dish.
How do I know when the lentils are fully cooked?
The lentils are fully cooked when they are tender but not mushy. Taste a few to check their texture.
Can I make this stew vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the meat and chorizo and add more vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery for a vegetarian version.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
