Creamy Lentil and Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
This One Pan Creamy Lentils with Japanese Sweet Potatoes and Kale is a wholesome, flavorful dish combining tender lentils, nutrient-rich kale, and naturally sweet Japanese sweet potatoes, all cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a comforting vegan-friendly meal that is both easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion, Healthy Contemporary
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 Japanese sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, more to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 cup low sodium broth (bone broth preferred)
- 1 can of lentils, drained and rinsed
- 2 large handfuls of chopped kale
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Juice of 1 lemon
For Serving (Optional)
- Tahini
- Chili oil
- Pita or sourdough bread
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering to create a base for sautéing the vegetables and spices.
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Add the peeled and cubed Japanese sweet potatoes to the pan along with oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, sea salt, and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté until the sweet potatoes begin to soften, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Broth and Lentils: Pour in the low sodium broth and add the rinsed and drained lentils. Stir well to combine and allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes so the lentils can absorb flavors and the broth reduces slightly.
- Incorporate Kale: Add the chopped kale to the pan, stirring it in so it wilts evenly within the lentil mixture.
- Stir in the Cream and Lemon Juice: Pour in the heavy cream and the fresh juice of one lemon. Stir gently to combine, creating a creamy texture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and flavors meld.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired for seasoning balance.
- Serve: Serve the creamy lentils with sweet potatoes and kale warm. Optionally, drizzle tahini and chili oil on top and enjoy with pita or sourdough bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Using bone broth enhances the flavor, but vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian option.
- Japanese sweet potatoes offer a unique sweetness and creamy texture, but regular sweet potatoes can be substituted.
- For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream alternative.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the dish’s heat level.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
