The Best Beef Lentil Stew Recipe

Comfort food that heals – rich in protein, fiber, collagen, and anti-inflammatory spices.

If you’re craving something deeply nourishing yet simple to prepare, this is the best Lentil & Beef Stew recipe that hits every mark. Then add more broth or water and make this into a lentil soup. It’s slow-simmered with green lentils, tender chunks of beef, and a warming spice mix that soothes the gut and supports the immune system. The secret upgrade? Beef bone broth, which adds a savory depth and delivers bonus nutrients like collagen, iron, and minerals.

This beef stew is budget-friendly, deeply satisfying, and made with pantry staples. Plus, it stores well for meal prep and gets better with time.

What Makes It Nutritious?

  • Green Lentils – A great plant-based source of fiber, protein, folate, and iron.
  • Beef Chuck + Bone Broth – High in protein, zinc, B vitamins, and collagen for joint and gut support.
  • Turmeric, Ginger & Cinnamon – Powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
  • Cilantro & Onion – Support digestion and detoxification.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Serves

6

Ingredients

Required Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs beef stew meat or chuck roast, cubed (room temp)
  • 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can (14–15 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro (including stems)
  • 4 cups beef bone broth
  • 2 Tb Olive oil
  • 2 tsp Himalayan pink salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cumin

Optional to Elevate Flavor:

  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • A squeeze of lemon juice (to finish for brightness)
  • A spoonful of plain yogurt or coconut cream (for creaminess)
  • Fresh herbs (extra cilantro, parsley, or mint as garnish)

Steps

  1. Start with the Base
    In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil, the beef, chopped onion, and cilantro, salt. Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes until meat is lightly browned and onions are soft.
  2. Add Spices
    Sprinkle in turmeric, cumin, ginger, and cinnamon (if using). Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Build the Stew
    Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, beef bone broth, and salt. Stir well to combine.
  4. Simmer Gently
    Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for a minimum of 25 minutes until lentils are tender and beef is cooked through.
  5. Taste and Finish
    Adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in lemon juice or garnish with yogurt or herbs.

Nutritional Facts

The collagen and amino acids from the bone broth give this stew joint-supporting and gut-friendly benefits.

NutrientAmount
Calories~340 kcal
Protein~30 g
Total Fat~12 g
Saturated Fat~4.5 g
Carbohydrates~23 g
Fiber~9 g
Sugars~4 g
Iron~35% DV
Vitamin C~18% DV
Vitamin A~10% DV
Sodium~450 mg
Collagen (from broth)~2–4 g (est.)