Dinner

Vegetarian Mexican Lentil Stew Recipe

Name: Vegetarian Mexican Lentil Stew Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup diced sweet potatoes (1/2 inch pieces); 1 cup frozen corn; 2 teaspoons cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 ounce) no-salt-added black beans; 1 can (15 ounce) no-salt-added diced tomatoes; 2 cups broth of choice; Cheddar cheese (amount to your liking)

ByRafael Mansero January 30, 2026January 30, 2026

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Introduction

This Vegetarian Mexican Lentils recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Packed with spices, vegetables, and protein-rich lentils, it delivers satisfying comfort with a Mexican twist.

A close-up view of a white round shallow bowl filled with a mix of lentils, black beans, corn kernels, and small red tomato pieces, all cooked together. The top layer is sprinkled with melted white cheese and garnished with bright green chopped parsley. A wooden spoon is lifting a scoop from the bowl, showing the mixed ingredients and melted cheese in detail. The background is a white marbled texture with soft light highlighting the colors and textures of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup diced sweet potatoes (1/2 inch pieces)
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 ounce) no-salt-added black beans
1 can (15 ounce) no-salt-added diced tomatoes
1 cup frozen corn
2 cups broth of choice
Cheddar cheese (amount to your liking)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Step 2: Stir in minced garlic, diced sweet potatoes, cumin, chili powder, and tomato paste. Cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 3: Add the rinsed lentils, black beans, diced tomatoes, frozen corn, and broth. Stir everything well to combine.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with your preferred amount of cheddar cheese.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the spices.
Swap sweet potatoes for butternut squash or carrots for a different flavor and texture.
Use vegetable broth to keep this dish fully vegetarian and enhance the depth of flavor.
Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for a bright finish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the lentils gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the texture.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a cooked lentil dish in a white pan, filled with layers of brown lentils, bright yellow corn kernels, black beans, diced red tomatoes, and finely chopped green herbs. The dish has melted white cheese spread unevenly on top, adding a soft, creamy texture. A wooden spoon lifts a spoonful of the lentil mixture, showing gooey cheese stretching between the spoon and the pan, with the colorful ingredients densely packed together against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of lentils for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown lentils with green lentils or even red lentils. Keep in mind that red lentils cook faster and become softer, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Absolutely. This lentil dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and stir occasionally while warming to maintain even texture.