Savory Lentil Stew with Crusty Bread for a Family of Four

When it comes to affordable, nutritious, and delicious meals, lentils are a fantastic ingredient to have in your pantry. This savory lentil stew, paired with crusty bread, is not only budget-friendly but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a hearty and satisfying dinner for the whole family.

Ingredients

For Savory Lentil Stew:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: $0.10
• 1 large onion, chopped: $0.50
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: $0.15
• 3 carrots, diced: $0.75
• 2 celery stalks, diced: $0.50
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed: $1.00
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: $1.00
• 6 cups vegetable broth: $1.50
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: $0.10
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: $0.10
• 1 bay leaf: $0.05
• Salt and pepper to taste: $0.10
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: $1.00 (optional)

For Crusty Bread:

• 1 loaf of crusty bread: $2.00

Total Estimated Cost: $8.85

Instructions

For Savory Lentil Stew:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the spinach is wilted.

For Crusty Bread:

1. While the stew is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the loaf of crusty bread directly on the oven rack and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is warm and the crust is crispy.
3. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Ladle the savory lentil stew into bowls and serve hot, with slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping. This meal is not only filling and nutritious but also incredibly easy on the budget. The combination of protein-rich lentils and fresh vegetables ensures a balanced and wholesome dinner that your family will love.

This recipe shows that with a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a meal that is both satisfying and affordable. Enjoy the hearty flavors of this lentil stew and the comforting crunch of warm, crusty bread. Bon appétit!