Cauliflower & Lentil Stew

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spiced Cauliflower

   8 min hands-on25 min waiting

   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
   • Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and spread on a baking tray.
   • Drizzle with half of the olive oil and sprinkle with turmeric, paprika, cumin seeds, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
   • Toss to coat the cauliflower evenly with spices. Roast for 20–25 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

2. Start the Stew Base

   7 min hands-on

   • Finely dice the onion and carrot.
   • Heat the remaining olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Infuse the Aromatics

   2 min hands-on

   • Mince the garlic and stir it into the pot. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the remaining cumin seeds and paprika, along with cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables.

4. Incorporate the Lentils and Liquids

   5 min hands-on25 min waiting

   • Rinse the lentils and add them to the pot.
   • Stir in the tomato sauce and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the stew has thickened.

5. Add Fresh Ingredients

   4 min hands-on5 min waiting

   • Dice the fresh tomatoes and stir them into the stew, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
   • Roughly chop the spinach and stir it in just before turning off the heat.

6. Prepare the Herbed Yogurt

   3 min hands-on

   • Combine the Greek yogurt with finely chopped fresh coriander leaves in a small bowl.
   • Squeeze in the lemon juice and mix well. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.

7. Assemble and Serve

   3 min hands-on

   • Ladle the lentil stew into bowls and top with the roasted cauliflower.
   • Drizzle the herbed yogurt over the top and garnish with additional fresh coriander leaves.
   • Cooking tips:
   • To ensure the cauliflower stays crispy, avoid overcrowding the baking tray. Use two trays if needed.
   • Stir the lentils occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking or scorching at the bottom of the pot.
   • For a richer flavor, toast the cumin seeds in the oil for 30 seconds before adding the vegetables.
   • Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
   • Serve with warm flatbread or rice for a more filling meal.