Lentejas con Chorizo (Spanish Lentil Stew)
Local name: Lentejas con chorizo
In short: A thick, comforting stew of brown lentils, chorizo, bacon, carrot and smoked paprika, with potato to thicken the broth and vinegar to finish. It takes about 1 h 15 min in total and makes 6 servings.
- Prep
- 20 min
- Cook
- 55 min
- Total
- 1 h 15 min
- Servings
- 6
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 520 kcal
Lentils are a weekly dish in Spanish homes, usually cooked as a thick stew with chorizo, bacon, vegetables and a spoonful of paprika. Spanish brown lentils hold their shape and need no soaking. Many families add a little potato to thicken the broth, and a splash of vinegar at the table sharpens the flavors. It is plain, cheap food that tastes better on the second day.
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the chorizo and bacon for 4 minutes, until the fat runs and the edges color.
- Add the onion, carrots and pepper and cook for 8 minutes, stirring, until soft. Stir in the garlic and paprika for 30 seconds.
- Add the tomatoes and cook 3 minutes until thick. Stir in the lentils, bay leaf and water and bring to a boil, skimming off any foam.
- Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes. Add the potato and cook 15 to 20 minutes more, until the lentils are tender and the broth has thickened.
- Season with salt at the end, since the sausage is salty. Stir in the vinegar and rest the pot for 10 minutes before serving with bread.
Tips
- Add water a little at a time if the stew gets too thick. It should be spoonable, not soupy, and it thickens further as it cools.
- For a vegetarian version, leave out the chorizo and bacon and use 2 tsp smoked paprika, an extra carrot and 2 tbsp more oil.
Questions and answers
Do Spanish lentils need soaking?
No. Brown or green lentils cook in 30 to 40 minutes without soaking. Rinse them and pick out any small stones.
Can I freeze lentejas?
Yes, for up to 3 months. The potato softens a little after freezing, so thaw overnight and reheat gently with a splash of water.
What do you serve with lentil stew?
Crusty bread is enough. Some families add a fried egg or serve rice on the side, and many finish the meal with fruit.
How long does it take to make Lentejas con Chorizo (Spanish Lentil Stew)?
About 1 h 15 min in total: 20 min of preparation and 55 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Lentejas con Chorizo (Spanish Lentil Stew)?
About 520 kcal per serving, with 27 g of protein, 52 g of carbohydrates and 23 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 520 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 27 g |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Fat | 23 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Sodium | 1100 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
