Introduction
Few Spanish comfort foods are as beloved and nourishing as Lentejas con Chorizo—a hearty lentil stew simmered with vegetables and smoky Spanish sausage. Perfect for cold winters yet light enough for any season, this dish is a staple in Spanish homes.
Whether you’re exploring traditional Spanish cuisine or searching for a healthy, protein-packed one-pot meal, this recipe delivers robust flavor, rustic simplicity, and deep cultural roots. In this 2025 guide, we’ll break down the full recipe, share variations, and explain why Lentejas con Chorizo is gaining renewed popularity among food lovers worldwide.
The History of Lentejas con Chorizo
The origins of lentil stew in Spain trace back to Roman times, but the inclusion of chorizo—Spain’s famous paprika-spiced sausage—elevated it into a national favorite. Known for its simplicity and nutrition, it became a regular dish in Spanish school cafeterias, home kitchens, and tapas bars.
Today, it represents not just traditional cooking but also the practicality of budget-friendly, nutritious meals made with pantry staples.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 300g brown or Pardina lentils (no soaking needed)
- 150g Spanish chorizo, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika (pimentón dulce)
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1.2 liters water or low-sodium chicken stock
How to Make Lentejas con Chorizo (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until soft (about 5–7 minutes).
Step 2: Add Chorizo and Paprika
Stir in the sliced chorizo and sweet paprika. Sauté for 3–4 minutes to release the flavors.
Step 3: Combine Lentils and Vegetables
Add carrots, potatoes, lentils, bay leaf, and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer Gently
Cook uncovered for 35–40 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally. Add water if needed to maintain your desired consistency.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Why Lentejas con Chorizo Is a 2025 Must-Cook Meal
- High in protein and fiber
- Budget-friendly and filling
- Freezer-friendly and ideal for meal prep
- Adaptable for vegetarian and vegan diets (omit chorizo)
With growing trends toward whole foods and cultural recipes, Lentejas con Chorizo ticks every box for health-conscious and curious eaters.
Variations to Try
- Vegan version: Skip chorizo and add smoked paprika with mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
- With greens: Add spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes.
- Spicy twist: Use hot chorizo or a dash of chili flakes.
Conclusion
Lentejas con Chorizo is more than a meal—it’s a warm, flavorful hug in a bowl. Rich with Spanish tradition, full of nourishment, and easy to make, it’s a dish that never goes out of style.
Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a comforting Sunday lunch, it proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. Try this recipe in 2025 and bring a taste of Spain into your home.
Buen provecho!
Explore more traditional Spanish recipes on our blog—each dish tells a delicious story from every corner of Spain.