Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup chopped carrots; 1 cup chopped celery; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Stew on busy weeknights. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, packed with nutrients, and the flavors only get better as it simmers. The beauty of a crockpot is how it allows all the ingredients to meld perfectly over time. Plus, this dish is easily customizable, so I often toss in whatever veggies I have on hand. Trust me, this stew makes for a comforting meal that's not only delicious but also guilt-free!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:18:59.103Z

When I first tried making lentil stew in a crockpot, I was amazed at how easy it was to prepare. I simply chopped up some tomatoes, carrots, and celery, added spices like cumin and thyme, and let the machine do its magic. The results were delightful! The lentils absorbed the rich flavors of the vegetables, creating a hearty dish that was perfect for the cooler months.

One tip I swear by is to always add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. It brightens the dish and elevates all the flavors beautifully. This stew has become a go-to in my home, and I know you’ll love how wholesome it feels!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
Packed with protein and fiber for a filling meal.
Versatile for any season and customizable with your favorite veggies.

      

Understanding Lentils

Lentils are the star ingredient of this stew, offering a hearty texture and significant nutritional benefits. They cook relatively quickly compared to other dried legumes, and their earthy flavor complements the sweetness of the carrots and the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. For this recipe, green or brown lentils are recommended due to their ability to hold their shape during long cooking periods, making them perfect for a crockpot environment.

Rinsing your lentils before use is crucial, as it helps remove any dust or impurities. Not only does this step enhance the overall purity of your dish, but it also prevents any gritty texture in your soup. If you want to experiment, you can try red lentils as well; they cook faster and will create a creamier consistency, although they may dissolve more easily.

Boosting Flavor

The seasoning in this stew is essential for developing depth of flavor. The combination of cumin and thyme imparts a warm, aromatic background that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes and lentils. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the mix. Experimenting with herbs, such as fresh basil or parsley, can also provide a fresh finish when serving.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances the sweetness of the onion and mellows the sharpness of the garlic, creating a richer foundation for your stew. Just be careful not to let them brown too much; you want them translucent and fragrant before introducing them to the remaining ingredients.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Stew is perfect for meal prepping. Once fully cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the stew has thickened too much during storage.

Serving this stew can be just as flexible as its ingredient list. Pair it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread for a complete meal or serve it over cooked quinoa or brown rice for an added boost of fiber and protein. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt can enhance the final presentation and freshness, transforming it from a cozy stew into a delightful dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a comforting stew.

Main Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 onion, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add any additional vegetables or spices to suit your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stew.

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the lentils, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, cumin, and thyme.

Transfer to Crockpot

Pour the vegetable broth over the mixture in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the lentils are tender.

Finish and Serve

Stir in a splash of vinegar or lemon juice before serving for extra brightness.

Enjoy your stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice!

Pro Tips

For added protein, feel free to mix in some cooked chicken or tofu during the last hour of cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this stew based on the vegetables you have in your pantry. For example, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can easily take the place of carrots or celery, allowing you to adapt the recipe according to seasonal availability or personal preferences. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly if you add vegetables that cook faster than lentils.

If you're looking for a protein boost, consider tossing in diced potatoes or adding cooked sausage for a heartier version. If you’d like to keep this dish vegan, ensure that any added protein is plant-based to maintain the stew’s wholesome essence.

Troubleshooting

One potential issue you might encounter is overcooked lentils, resulting in a mushy stew. To prevent this, check the lentils at the 7-hour mark. If they’ve reached the ideal tender texture, it's best to turn the crockpot off slightly earlier than scheduled. Remember, cooking times can vary based on the crockpot model, so it’s wise to check for doneness occasionally.

Additionally, if you find the stew is too thick for your liking, simply add more vegetable broth, a half-cup at a time, while stirring to achieve your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the stew to create a creamier texture while keeping some whole ingredients for visual appeal.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on busy weeknights, consider prepping the ingredients in advance. Chop the vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. This way, all you need to do is combine everything in the crockpot before you head out for the day, making dinner a breeze when you return.

You can also create a bulk batch of this stew and freeze it in individual servings. This provides you with a quick, nutritious meal option on nights when you might not have time to cook. Just let the stew thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, then reheat as directed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, you can use red lentils or any other variety, but be aware that cook times may vary.

→ Is this stew freezable?

Absolutely! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It's great with crusty bread, rice, or even a side salad for a complete meal.