Du Puy Lentil Tomato and Harissa Stew - Testing

Quick and easy, this thick, hearty and nourishing French lentil and tomato stew is seasoned with harissa, the classic and distinctive fiery chilli, garlic and cumin condiment from North Africa

1 - The flavours are really nice! Changes are afoot, though! See below for eliminated soaking, and longer period uncovered, along with serving suggestions.

2 - I increased the quantity by half, and while it was quick and tasty, I felt like it was maybe overly acidic. Really, the only thing, but it makes me wonder about any umami I could add to balance it a bit.

3 - I keep having to double recipes since there are more people in the house and I forget to change the calculation for some ingredients. Anyway, I've double the quantity for this recipe, and it feeds 4 people. Also, it tasted acidic again, so I added just 1/4 tsp sugar and it seemed to balance it.

4 servings

1/3 cup olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
2 tsps ground coriander
2 tsps ground cumin
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1 1/3 cup Du Puy lentils
6 medium tomatoes, chopped (approx 36oz)
1/2 tsp turmeric
2 cup water
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp sea salt, or to taste
1 Tbsps + 1 tsp harissa, or to taste

OPTIONAL - a little sugar if it tastes too acidic (I added 1/4 tsp last time and it worked a treat)

1. Rinse the lentils and soak for 2 hours in enough water to cover. Drain before cooking.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over a low medium heat to poach the onion. When hot, toss in the shallot or onion and stir for 3 to 4 minutes or until softened. Add the garlic, stir for 30 to 60 seconds, a minute then add the coriander, cumin and thyme; stir to coat the vegetables.
3. Add the lentils, tomatoes and turmeric, and pour in 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 40 minutes.
4. Stir in the paprika, salt and harissa, taste for seasoning, and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes or until the water is reduced and the mixture is a thick stew.
5. Remove from heat and serve hot with rice or a crusty bread.