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Roasted Pumpkin and Lentil Stew with Citrus

This hearty stew combines roasted pumpkin and tender lentils cooked in a flavorful broth infused with orange juice, resulting in a thick, velvety texture. The dish features a vibrant, aromatic profile with a balance of earthiness and bright citrus notes, served as a comforting main course.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: seasonal
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small butternut squash or pumpkin peeled, seeded, and cut into chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup green or brown lentils rinsed
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup orange juice freshly squeezed if possible
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Stirring spoon
  • Immersion blender or regular blender

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the pumpkin chunks on a baking sheet, toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and roast for about 25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  2. While the pumpkin roasts, heat the remaining olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute until it becomes aromatic.
  4. Once the pumpkin is roasted and slightly cooled, add it to the pot along with rinsed lentils. Stir everything together for a minute to combine the flavors.
  5. Pour in the vegetable broth and orange juice, and add the cinnamon and smoked paprika if using. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 25 minutes until the lentils are tender and the flavors meld together.
  7. Use an immersion blender to carefully blend the stew directly in the pot until smooth or slightly chunky, according to your preference. This creates a velvety, hearty texture.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and adjust with additional orange juice or broth if necessary for your desired consistency and brightness.
  9. Turn off the heat and let the stew sit for a couple of minutes to settle and develop its flavors further.
  10. Ladle the warm, vibrant stew into bowls and enjoy immediately, garnished with herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

Roast the pumpkin ahead of time for deeper flavor, and feel free to adjust the citrus for brightness. The texture can be left chunky or blended smooth, depending on preference.