Easy Crockpot Ham and Lentil Stew Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can briefly sauté the carrots and ham in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker, though this is optional. This step helps to caramelize the carrots and brown the ham, adding a layer of complexity to the final dish. If you choose to do this, ensure the ham and carrots are cool before adding them to the slow cooker to maintain food safety. This simple extra step can elevate the stew, making it taste as though it has been simmering for much longer.

To enhance the aromatic profile of the stew, consider adding a bay leaf during the cooking process. Remove the bay leaf before serving to ensure a smooth texture.

If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can also add a small amount of minced garlic or a splash of apple cider vinegar at the very end of the cooking time to brighten the flavors. Always adjust seasonings gradually, tasting as you go, to ensure the final result is perfectly balanced to your own preferences and dietary needs.

Variations

• Smoky Ham and Lentil Stew: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper during the seasoning step to introduce a subtle, smoky heat that complements the savory ham perfectly.
• Vegetable-Packed Stew: Incorporate additional diced vegetables such as celery or parsnips during the layering phase to increase the texture and nutritional variety of the stew without changing the cooking time.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the stew is cooled within 2 hours of cooking before placing it in the refrigerator.

Freezer

Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating thoroughly.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until steaming hot throughout.

Allow any leftovers to cool for no more than 2 hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, the stew will maintain its quality for up to 3 days. When reheating, ensure the stew is heated until it is steaming hot throughout.

If you find the stew has thickened significantly while in the fridge, add a small splash of water or broth during the reheating process to restore the desired consistency, stirring well to ensure even heating.

This stew is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often deepen and improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can prepare the entire recipe and store it in the fridge for a day or two before serving. Alternatively, you can assemble the dry ingredients and the ham in the slow cooker insert the night before, keeping it covered in the fridge, and simply add the broth just before starting the cooking process the next morning to save time.

Serving ideas

Serve this hearty stew hot in shallow bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. It pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or warm sourdough, which is perfect for mopping up the flavorful, thickened broth.

The warmth and heartiness of the dish make it an ideal stand-alone meal, but it can also be served alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the stew.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving the stew over a small portion of steamed brown rice or quinoa, which adds an extra layer of texture. If you prefer a lighter approach, a side of roasted vegetables or steamed green beans works beautifully.

Regardless of how you choose to serve it, ensure the stew is piping hot when it hits the table. This dish is designed for comfort, so keep the presentation simple and rustic, allowing the natural, home-cooked qualities of the stew to be the focal point of the meal.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Crockpot Ham and Lentil Stew

Prep 10 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 10 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked ham, cubed
• 1 cup dry brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups carrots, diced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 4 cups chicken broth

Instructions

1. Place the cubed ham into the base of the slow cooker, ensuring it covers the bottom evenly. Add the rinsed dry lentils and the diced carrots on top of the ham in the slow cooker insert.
2. Sprinkle the dried thyme over the lentil and carrot mixture. Carefully pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients until everything is fully submerged in the liquid.
3. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the lentils are tender and the internal temperature of the ham reaches 145°F (63°C). Allow the stew to rest for at least 3 minutes before serving.

Contains: celery

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

6 g

Fiber

12 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.