Lentils San Stefano
Lentils San Stefano is a flavorful Continental Global Delicacies dish prepared with quality ingredients. Bring 3 cups water and bay leaf to a boil in a 2- to 3-quart saucepan, then add lentils and simmer, uncovered, 2 minutes.
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Easy Prep ≤ 4 steps · Fast & beginner friendly
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Moderate 5–8 steps · Everyday home cooking
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Expert ≥ 9 steps · Multi-step advanced prep
Ingredients Required
Tap or click any ingredient to check off during cookingStep-by-Step Cooking Method
Follow numbered steps for authentic taste and perfectionBring 3 cups water and bay leaf to a boil in a 2- to 3-quart saucepan, then add lentils and simmer, uncovered, 2 minutes.
Remove pan from heat and let lentils soak 1 hour.
Drain lentils in a colander.
Cook pork fat in a 6-quart heavy pot over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until deep golden and some fat is rendered, 6 to 8 minutes, then discard solids. (If using bacon, transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain and reserve for garnish.).
Add oil to fat in pot and heat over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then fry bread, turning once, until golden, about 1 minute total.
Transfer toasts to paper towels to drain and lightly season with salt.
Add potatoes to fat in pot and sauté, stirring, until golden, 7 to 8 minutes.
Transfer with a slotted spoon to fresh paper towels to drain.
Add onion and garlic to pot and sauté, stirring, until golden, 6 to 8 minutes.
Stir in lentils, tomatoes with their juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and remaining 5 cups water and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until lentils are just tender and stew is thickened, 40 to 45 minutes.
Discard bay leaf and stir in potatoes, basil, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste.
Thin stew with water if desired, then serve over toasts or with toasts on the side.
Sprinkle with bacon if using.
*Available at specialty foods shops and natural foods stores.
Chef's Secret Tips & Serving Pairings
- Serve hot and fresh as a wholesome non-vegetarian meal.
- Pairs excellently with steamed rice, flatbreads, or fresh salad garnish.