Noticed what, you might ask? That I'm trying really hard to give you at least one new slow cooker recipe each week? Did you? I didn't really make a conscious effort to do so, but after I noticed it was happening, I figured nobody would complain. So many of us are celebrating the arrival of autumn by using our Crock Pots for everything and anything, for the comforting, cooked all day meal we all crave.
So, here is today's installment. A rustic meal that you can literally throw in the slow cooker in about 15 minutes in the morning as you are rushing out the door, and then come home at the end of the day to eat. That's it. No fuss. No muss. The perfect dish on a chilly fall day when you just want to pick your feet up, relax and enjoy every single bite.
I actually made a version of this a few years ago, and decided to tweak it a little bit to make it even better this time around. Add a little more flavor to an already tasty dish. Plus I moved it on the scale a little bit, farther from soup, closer to a stew. Doesn't the word stew just make you feel warm and satisfied? Especially during the colder months. Oh, and I added more veggies this time to! Get them in where you can, right??!!
If you've never had lentils, think "flat beans". I know that isn't a technical description, but when they cook they remind of a little of beans, soft and tender. They also happen to be one of the healthiest foods you can eat! With high protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, they are an easy way to get more nutrients in your diet.
If you're looking for a delicious meal that you can feel really good about eating, and savor every spoonful, this is it. Treat your family to it tonight!
So, here is today's installment. A rustic meal that you can literally throw in the slow cooker in about 15 minutes in the morning as you are rushing out the door, and then come home at the end of the day to eat. That's it. No fuss. No muss. The perfect dish on a chilly fall day when you just want to pick your feet up, relax and enjoy every single bite.
I actually made a version of this a few years ago, and decided to tweak it a little bit to make it even better this time around. Add a little more flavor to an already tasty dish. Plus I moved it on the scale a little bit, farther from soup, closer to a stew. Doesn't the word stew just make you feel warm and satisfied? Especially during the colder months. Oh, and I added more veggies this time to! Get them in where you can, right??!!
If you've never had lentils, think "flat beans". I know that isn't a technical description, but when they cook they remind of a little of beans, soft and tender. They also happen to be one of the healthiest foods you can eat! With high protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, they are an easy way to get more nutrients in your diet.
If you're looking for a delicious meal that you can feel really good about eating, and savor every spoonful, this is it. Treat your family to it tonight!
Crock Pot Sausage and Lentil Stew
1 c. dried lentils, rinsed
1 lb. smoked sausage, chopped
3 c. chicken broth
2 c. water
2 chicken bouillon cubes
1 (28 oz.) oz. can diced tomatoes, with juice
1 white onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery hearts, diced
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. dried parsley, extra for garnish
Salt and Pepper to taste
Combine all ingredient in Crock Pot. Stir well to mix. Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours until lentils are tender.
