Deliciously Ella’s Family Loves This Easy Make-Ahead Meal

This recipe is part of our recipe series with Deliciously Ella — see more recipes here

Ella Mills is busy. Not only is she an entrepreneur, best-selling author, and founder of plant-based company Deliciously Ella, but she’s a mom to two little girls. To make weeknights a little easier for her family, fridge- or freezer-friendly meals always come in handy — like this comforting, plant-based stew that makes sure everyone gets their protein and veggies. 

“I make a variation of this simple veggie bean stew for my family every week, and I have a feeling you’ll be making this on repeat too,” Mills says. “It’s packed full of plant-based protein and comforting vegetables, as well as creamy coconut milk and nutrient-rich spinach. It keeps well in the fridge (or freezer), making it the perfect prep-ahead meal for a busy week.” 

Deliciously Ella’s Family Veggie Stew

Active time: 20 minutes 
Total time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 

Ingredients: 

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 shallots, finely diced 
2 carrots, finely diced 
2 sticks of celery, finely diced 
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced/finely chopped 
1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs 
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 bay leaves 
1 cube vegetable stock 
14 oz lentils, cooked and drained (about 1 ¾ cup)
14 oz chickpeas, drained 
14 oz chopped tomatoes 
14 oz coconut milk 
1 tablespoon maple syrup 
1 teaspoon tamari
1 bag spinach (a little less than 1 cup) 
Pinch of sea salt and black pepper
Pasta, brown rice, or jacket potatoes (aka Russet potatoes), to serve 

Instructions:  

Warm the olive oil in a large saucepan or casserole dish set over medium-low heat. Add the shallots, carrots, celery, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 15-20 minutes, until softened. 

Stir in the dried herbs, tomato purée, bay leaves, stock cube, lentils, chickpeas, chopped tomatoes, and coconut milk. Fill the empty tomato can with water halfway, then pour into the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer with the lid off for 25-30 minutes, until reduced by about one third. 

Add the maple syrup and tamari, then stir in the spinach until wilted. Taste to check the seasonings and adjust as needed. 

Divide the stew between bowls and serve immediately. This is delicious as it is or served with potatoes, brown rice, or pasta. 

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Ella’s tip: “This recipe keeps well — the flavour improves over time!” 

Make More Easy Meals With Deliciously Ella at Thrive Market: 

Deliciously Ella Sundried Tomato Pesto
Deliciously Ella Genovese Basil Pesto
Deliciously Ella Artichoke Cream Sauce & Spread