Down To Earth

This earthy bowl works wonders for supporting you feeling grounded and stable amidst the winds of change, which makes it perfect for Fall. Lentils are an excellent source of vegetarian protein and have a great texture in soups and stews when you cook them right! The humble potatoes take the earthiness to an all new level - its like a hug in a bowl. This One Bowl Wonder can be made with sausage of various kinds, including tofu-based sausage or go without it!

Ingredients:

• ½ yellow onion, diced
• 2 Tbsp oil (avocado or olive)
• 3 medium potatoes, chopped into big chunks, I love Yukon Golds and leave the skin on for an earthier flavor
• 1 cup lentils, Puy or French are my favorite by far
• 4 cups of broth – vegetable, chicken or bone broth for extra protein
• 1 12oz kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds – turkey, pork or tofu (optional)
• 1 bunch of lacinto/dino kale stemmed and chopped
• Sea salt
• 1 Tbsp butter for finishing (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large stock pot, heat the oil over medium heat until glistening
2. Add the onion and saute 5 minutes, stirring gently
3. Add the potatoes, lentils and broth and bring to a low boil
4. Add a ½ tsp of sea salt and stir to combine
5. Cover and cook 15 minutes
6. Add the kielbasa and cover again. Cook for another 15 minutes or more depending on the lentils you chose. Don’t overcook them, they should be soft but not mushy so check every 5 minutes or so until they’re just right.
7. Check the seasoning and add more sea salt to your liking
8. When the lentils are perfect, remove the pot from the heat and add the chopped kale
9. Stir the kale and optional pat of butter into the stew and cover so the kale wilts slightly in 5 minutes or so
10. Serve in individual bowls, feel free to add fresh cracked black pepper on top