Lentils have fed families for thousands of years — humble, hearty, and endlessly generous. This stew simmers red lentils with cumin, tomatoes, and olive oil into the kind of pot that always has room for one more bowl.
Warm the olive oil in a heavy pot and cook the onion low and slow until soft and golden, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic, cumin, and coriander and stir until fragrant.
Add the lentils, tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook, mostly ignored, for 30 minutes.
Stir occasionally — the lentils will soften and thicken the stew on their own. Add water if it grows thicker than you like.
Season with salt, a generous squeeze of lemon, and more olive oil to finish.
Serve with torn bread and parsley. It's even better the next day, which makes it perfect for sharing.
Keep a pot of this in the fridge and you'll never be caught unready to feed someone who needs it.
gather. nourish. give thanks.