Print

Lentil Ragout – French Puy Lentil Side Dish Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 123 reviews

This flavorful Lentil Ragout is a classic French side dish made with nutrient-rich Puy lentils, aromatic vegetables, and fresh herbs. Slow-simmered in vegetable stock and enhanced with garlic, onion, carrot, tomato paste, and herbs like bay leaf and thyme, this ragout is a wholesome and savory accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 garlic clove, finely minced
  • 1/2 onion, finely diced
  • 1 large carrot, peeled and finely diced

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 bay leaf, preferably fresh otherwise dried
  • 1 thyme sprig
  • 3 cups vegetable stock
  • 1/2 tsp salt (skip if using store-bought stock)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped

Legumes

  • 1 cup Puy lentils (French lentils)

Instructions

  1. Heat Olive Oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced onion to the hot oil. Cook and stir them until they are softened and fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Tomato Paste and Herbs: Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste along with a bay leaf and a thyme sprig. Cook this mixture for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors and eliminate any raw tomato taste.
  4. Add Lentils and Simmer: Pour in 1 cup of Puy lentils, 3 cups of vegetable stock, 1/2 teaspoon salt (omit if broth is salted), and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape, preventing them from turning mushy.
  5. Season and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped parsley. Taste the ragout and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm as a nutritious side dish.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs like bay leaf and thyme for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if necessary.
  • Do not overcook the lentils to avoid mushiness; Puy lentils hold their shape well when cooked properly.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, fish, or as a hearty vegetarian main accompanied by crusty bread.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Keywords: Lentil Ragout, Puy Lentils, French Side Dish, Vegetarian Lentil Recipe, Healthy Lentils, Vegetable Lentil Stew

Find it online: https://kitchenbyclara.com/lentil-ragout-french-puy-lentil-side-dish-recipe/