Aj De Lentejas Bolivian Spicy Lentil Stew Recipe

A vibrant and flavorful vegan Ajiaco de Lentejas, a traditional Bolivian lentil stew with a zesty Ecuadorian-inspired salsa! This hearty and satisfying recipe is perfect for a chilly evening. Experience the rich blend of spices and textures in this globally-inspired dish, featuring a bright salsa common to Ecuador, Chile, Peru, and Northern Chile. Easy to follow instructions for a delicious and authentic meal.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 55 mins
Calories 217.3 kcal
Protein 28g
Rating 5.0 (3 Reviews)
Aj De Lentejas Bolivian Spicy Lentil Stew 78

Recipe Actions

Share this recipe:

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Aj De Lentejas Bolivian Spicy Lentil Stew

  • 1 teaspoon ground aji panca
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 2 cups chopped tomatoes
  • 2 1/2 cloves garlic
  • 0 Italian Parsley
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/8 teaspoons salt
  • 3 cups 6 tablespoons water
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, finely minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cook Smarter with Sous, Your Kitchen Companion

Missing an ingredient for this Aj De Lentejas Bolivian Spicy Lentil Stew? Need a perfect wine pairing or a healthy side dish idea? Don't guess—ask Sous! Your AI-powered sous-chef is ready to help you swap ingredients, adjust serving sizes, and discover flavor tips in seconds.

How to Make Aj De Lentejas Bolivian Spicy Lentil Stew

  1. **Prepare the Salsa (Sarsa):**
  2. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup chopped red onion, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 jalapeño pepper, finely minced (remove seeds for less heat), 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Mix well and set aside for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. **Cook the Lentils:**
  4. Rinse 1 cup brown or green lentils under cold water.
  5. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils, 3 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 clove garlic (minced), and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
  7. Drain the lentils and discard the garlic clove.
  8. Set aside.
  9. **Prepare the Stew:**
  10. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  11. Add 2 cloves garlic (minced) and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  12. Add 1 medium onion (chopped) and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  13. Stir in 1 teaspoon ground aji panca (or other chili powder to taste) and 2 tablespoons water. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  14. Add 2 cups chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh), 1/4 cup water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  15. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  16. Add the cooked lentils to the sauce and stir to combine.
  17. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  18. **Serve:**
  19. Serve the Ajiaco de Lentejas hot over white or brown rice. Top generously with the prepared salsa (sarsa).
  20. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

23g

Fat

0g

Carbs

13g