Bonfire Night UK... why not also enjoy a bowl of Lentil and Vegetable Minestrone Stew / Casserole

November 5th is host to Guy Fawkes’ Night, or Bonfire Night, in the UK. This day celebrates the capture and execution of Guy Fawkes, an attempted terrorist who tried blowing up the Houses of Parliament centuries ago. This event is celebrated by fireworks and food, and you may like to give this recipe a try.

Lentil and Vegetable Minestrone Stew / Casserole

a warming dish, its nutritional details per serving

Fat 5g Carbs 19g Fibre 6g Protein 6g

Ingredients
Serves Four
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 carrot, diced small
1 celery stick, diced small
3 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
3 tbsp. sundried tomato paste
2 sprigs of rosemary
1 bay leaf
700ml hot reduced-salt chicken stock
1 x 400g tin pomodorini cherry tomatoes
1 x 400g tin green lentils, drained and well-rinsed
100g cabbage or kale, any tough stalks removed, shredded

To serve (optional)
a few Parmesan (or vegetarian alternative) shavings
a few basil leaves
a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil

Method
1. Heat the oil in a large casserole or heavy-based pan. Add the onion, carrot and celery; cover and cook gently for 10 minutes. Add the garlic, cover and cook for 2-3 minutes.

2. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add the rosemary, bay leaf, stock and tomatoes. Bring to the boil, then simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Remove the rosemary and bay leaf.

3. Add the lentils and cabbage or kale; simmer for 5 minutes until the veg is tender. Season. Serve in bowls with Parmesan shavings, basil leaves and a drizzle of oil, if you like.

Tip - Get Ahead
Make up to 2 days ahead, cool and chill. Gently reheat until piping hot, adding a little more water if necessary. Freeze (without the cabbage/kale) for up to 1 month.
From original idea here and of course you can enjoy this tasty dish any day of the week!

You can read the history about bonfire night here

~ if you may be celebrating bonfire night have fun but stay safe ~

Dear reader, you will see a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan