Priška-inspired Spiced Lentil Stew

Ingredients

In the original Slovenian Priška, the stew is typically made with beans, potatoes, and various vegetables, simmered in a vegetable or meat broth. The North East Indian adaptation adds a distinct flavor profile by incorporating spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, garlic, and red chili powder. These spices infuse the dish with a fiery kick and a unique aroma, transforming the traditional Priška into a fusion delight. We alse have the original recipe for Priška, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (200g) lentils 1 cup (200g) lentils
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 carrot, diced 1 carrot, diced
• 1 potato, diced 1 potato, diced
• 1 tomato, diced 1 tomato, diced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the lentils thoroughly and soak them in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Stir in the turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook for a minute to toast the spices.
5. 5.
   Add the diced carrot, potato, and tomato to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
6. 6.
   Add the soaked lentils to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Season with salt to taste.
7. 7.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.
8. 8.
   Once cooked, remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
9. 9.
   Serve the Priška-inspired Spiced Lentil Stew hot with rice or bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lentils — Make sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly before soaking to remove any impurities. Soaking them helps to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your preference.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to enhance the nutritional value and add more color to the dish.
• Serve the stew with a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for added tanginess.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.
• Experiment with different types of lentils, such as red lentils or split peas, for a variation in texture and taste.

Serving advice

Serve the Priška-inspired Spiced Lentil Stew hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with steamed rice or freshly baked bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of color. Serve it in rustic bowls or traditional Indian brassware to enhance the visual appeal.