Well, a gloomy forecast is ahead, friends. I thought this one may be fitting for your cozy-day weekend plans. And the best part? It’s hands-off to the max so you can sit back and kick your feet up while your slow cooker does all the work 😉

This stew is overflowing with nutrients so you can feel so good about feeding it to your family. Lentils, chicken sausage, carrots, tomatoes, kale…a rainbow of delight.

And with one bite you’ll question how your slow cooker can yield such flavor. It’s bright, hearty and full of savory comfort. I think you’ll love it!

Wishing you a happy Friday and an even happier weekend! xo

Slow Cooker Lentil Stew

notes: you can swap any sausage you like for the chicken sausage. I used Trader Joes Roasted Garlic Chicken Sausage but kielbasa, turkey kielbasa, chorizo for a spicier stew, or any other chicken sausage will work great in here…use what you like.

Ingredients

1 1/2 Cups Brown or Green Lentils, rinsed and drained

12 Ounce Chicken Sausage, sliced into half moon shapes *see note above

1 Medium Yellow Onion, finely chopped

3 Carrots, peeled and sliced

4 Cloves Garlic, finely chopped

4 Cups Chicken Stock

1 (15 Ounce) Can Diced Tomatoes

2 Tablespoons Tomato Paste

1/2 Teaspoon Kosher Salt

1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper

2 Sprigs Fresh Thyme

2 Cups Kale Leaves

1 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard

1 Tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar

Freshly Grated Parmesan, for topping

Directions

Place lentils, sausage, onion, carrots, garlic, chicken stock, tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper and thyme in the bowl of a slow cooker and stir well to combine. Cover and cook on high for 5 hours or until lentils are tender and stew has thickened. Stir in kale, dijon, and balsamic vinegar and cook, covered, until kale is just beginning to wilt, about 2 minutes. Season to taste with additional salt and black pepper and serve topped with grated parmesan cheese. Serves 6+