Hearty Georgian Lentil Stew Recipe

As winter lingers and the chill in the air persists, there's nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty stew. But what if you could elevate your traditional comfort food with bold, fiery flavours? Enter adjika, a versatile Georgian spice paste that brings a delightful heat and depth to any dish.

In this blog, we'll explore how to create a rich, satisfying Georgian Lentil Stew infused with the vibrant flavours of red adjika. We'll also discuss the health benefits of Georgian spices and how they can transform your winter meals.

What is Adjika?

Adjika is a traditional Georgian condiment made from a blend of chillies, garlic, herbs, and spices. It comes in various forms, including the classic red adjika, green adjika, and the uniquely nutty walnut adjika. This spicy paste is a staple in Georgian cuisine, known for its ability to enhance both meat and vegetarian dishes with a robust, savoury kick.

Health Benefits of Adjika and Georgian Spices

Not only does adjika add incredible flavour to your meals, but it also offers numerous health benefits. The chillies in adjika are rich in capsaicin, known for boosting metabolism and reducing inflammation. Garlic, another key ingredient, is packed with antioxidants and has immune-boosting properties—perfect for keeping those winter colds at bay. The combination of these ingredients creates a spice blend that's as nourishing as it is delicious.

Recipe: Hearty Georgian Lentil Stew with Red Adjika

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 1 tbsp Happy Adjika Red Adjika Paste

• 1 tsp dry adjika spice

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 can diced tomatoes

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and carrots, sautéing until softened (about 5-7 minutes).

2. Stir in the red adjika paste, and dry adjika spice, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, coriander, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes or until lentils are tender.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley.

This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or grilled meats, all enhanced with a spoonful of walnut adjika.