Hearty Lentil Stew - A Delicious and Nourishing Recipe for Menopause

Introduction

Welcome to a delicious and nutritious recipe for a hearty lentil stew, specifically designed with menopause in mind. This recipe is part of the Happy Menopause course, emphasizing the importance of diet in balancing hormones and alleviating menopause symptoms. Let's dive into this wholesome and tasty dish.

Ingredients

• 2 red onions, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 4 carrots, medium dice
• 1 leek, cleaned and sliced
• 500 grams lentils
• 1 liter of water
• 1 liter of vegetable stock
• 500 grams of mixed beans (e.g., brown lentils, chickpeas)
• Tamari (wheat-free soy sauce)
• 3 tablespoons of medium curry powder
• Cherry tomatoes
• Coriander (cilantro), including stems
• Bok choy, chopped
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Juice of half a lime
• Salt to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • In a large pot, sauté diced onions, garlic, carrots, and leek without oil, adding a bit of water if necessary.

2. Steam and Cook Lentils:

   • Add the lentils, water, and vegetable stock to the pot.
   • Bring to a simmer and cook until the lentils are tender.

3. Add Beans and Seasonings:

   • Stir in the mixed beans, tamari, and curry powder.
   • Add cherry tomatoes and coriander (cilantro), including the stems.

4. Include Greens:

   • Add chopped bok choy and cook until wilted.

5. Final Seasoning:

   • Season with black pepper, lime juice, and salt according to your taste.
   • Adjust the flavor with additional tamari or curry powder if desired.

6. Serve:

   • Serve the hearty lentil stew with sourdough bread and a side of sauerkraut for an extra tangy flavor.

Conclusion

This hearty lentil stew is more than just a meal; it's a nourishing experience, especially beneficial for those going through menopause. The blend of lentils, beans, and vegetables provides a rich source of phytoestrogens, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a belly-hugging dish that's deeply satisfying.