Craving a hearty meal without emptying your wallet or slaving over a stove? Our microwave canned lentil stew delivers flavor-packed comfort for under $2 per serving—and skips the pot entirely. This recipe turns pantry staples into a protein-rich, veggie-loaded meal faster than you can say “ramen noodles.”
We’ll show you how to layer spices, adjust liquid levels, and avoid microwave splatters for a stew that tastes simmered for hours. No culinary diploma required—just a microwave-safe bowl and a can opener.
Below, we’ll break down ingredient swaps, cook time tweaks for 700W vs. 1200W microwaves, and creative add-ins to keep your lentil game strong. Let’s turn that can into comfort.
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Cheap Microwave Canned Lentil Stew
Course: Main CourseCuisine: Global2
5
minutes5
minutes250
kcal10
minutesIf you're looking for a warm and delicious meal that won't break the bank, this microwave canned lentil stew is the perfect solution. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you just want to whip up something fast, this recipe makes use of convenient canned lentils and other pantry staples to create a hearty stew in minutes.
Ingredients
of lentils 15 oz each
of diced tomatoes 15 oz
of vegetable broth
of frozen mixed vegetables
of garlic powder
of onion powder
of olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
herbs for garnish . optional
Directions
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the canned lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and frozen mixed vegetables.
- Stir well to mix the ingredients together.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and mix until evenly distributed.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters.
- Microwave the mixture on high for 4 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
- Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave as it will be hot, and let it sit for a minute.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired..
Notes
- Feel free to customize the stew by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. This recipe is versatile and can include ingredients like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
What Are Canned Lentils?
Canned lentils are pre-cooked legumes swimming in a brine solution—think of them as the cheat code for lazy cooks. Unlike dried lentils that require soaking and simmering, these shelf-stable gems slide straight from pantry to plate. My grandma always kept a dozen cans in her “emergency meal” cupboard—wise woman.
Why Use Canned Lentils for Microwave Stew?
We use them because they’re 90% faster than dried versions. No boiling, no guessing if they’re mushy enough. Just drain, rinse (to cut sodium by 40%), and nuke. At last year’s family reunion, Sarah and Timmy demanded seconds of my 8-minute stew—proof even picky eaters approve.
What Does Lentil Stew Taste Like?
Imagine earthy lentils hugging garlic-kissed tomatoes, all lounging in a broth that whispers “home.” It’s like a hug from your microwave—savory with a slight tang. Grandma swore hers tasted better after adding apple cider vinegar. We tested it. She was right.
Flavor Profile and Customization Ideas
The base profile leans umami-rich and hearty, but your microwave is the DJ here. Crank up the flavor with: Microwaving can also enhance the taste of various foods, making them richer and more enjoyable. From pizza to leftovers, some dishes truly shine when reheated in the microwave rather than the oven.
- Smoky: Paprika + liquid smoke (Timmy’s campfire-inspired twist)
- Bright: Lemon zest + parsley (Sarah’s “fancy restaurant” version)
- Spicy: Red pepper flakes + cayenne (my midnight study session fuel)
Got leftover rice or wilting spinach? Toss them in. This stew forgives pantry raids like a saint. For a quick and easy meal, consider pairing it with lazy microwave boxed rice and canned spinach for added nutrition. Now, let’s raid your kitchen for the right ingredients—starting with that trusty can opener.
Ingredients for Microwave Canned Lentil Stew
Let’s build your stew’s flavor foundation without a grocery run. Raid your pantry—we’re getting creative with shelf staples. Pro tip: My 3 a.m. “starving student” version once used ketchup packets instead of tomato sauce. It worked. No judgment here.
Canned Lentils (Plus Low-cost Alternatives)
One 15-oz can yields two hearty servings at $1.10 average. Drain and rinse them to avoid a sodium tsunami. Out of cans? Use ½ cup dried lentils (soaked overnight) + 1 cup water—microwave 12 minutes. Cheaper but less couch-friendly. For those looking for convenience, consider options like cheap microwave canned lentil instant teff as a quick, nutritious meal. These products combine the ease of microwavable meals with the health benefits of lentils and teff, making them a perfect snack or side dish.
Tomato Sauce and Substitute Options
Tomato sauce adds tangy richness. No sauce? Mix 2 tbsp tomato paste + ¼ cup water. Out of tomatoes entirely? Try 1 mashed carrot + 1 tsp vinegar for sweetness and acidity. My roommate’s “tomato-less hack” shocked us both—it works.
Vegetables: Fresh, Frozen, or Canned
We’ve microwaved all three types side-by-side. Frozen spinach and canned corn tied for fastest prep (zero chopping). Fresh diced carrots add crunch but need 1 extra minute. Use what’s lurking in your fridge’s crisper drawer. When prepping meals, consider using the microwave steam trick to pre-chop your vegetables more efficiently. This method can help soften them quickly, making your cooking process even faster.
Essential Spices and Flavor Boosters
Garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are our holy trinity. For $1 store-bought bouillon cubes, crush one into the mix. My secret? A dash of fish sauce or soy sauce—adds umami oomph without seafood smells, making it perfect for Microwave Chicken Thighs Recipe – 5 Variations, Tips, Tools, FAQs & More
How to Make Canned Lentil Stew in the Microwave
Time to transform those ingredients. Total hands-on work: 3 minutes. Netflix pause time: negotiable.
Step-by-step Microwaving Instructions
- Drain lentils in a colander—rinse under water to shed 40% sodium.
- In a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl, mix lentils, ½ cup tomato sauce, 1 cup veggies, ¾ cup water, and spices.
- Microwave uncovered 4 minutes. Stir. Microwave another 3-5 minutes until bubbling at edges.
Adjusting Cook Times for Different Wattages
| Microwave Wattage | Total Time |
|---|---|
| 700W (dorm room classic) | 8-10 minutes |
| 1000W (average home) | 6-8 minutes |
| 1200W (beast mode) | 5-7 minutes |
Watch for vigorous bubbling—that’s your “done” signal. Burnt my tongue testing this. Learn from my mistakes.
Also See: Microwave Sweet Potato Recipe – 5 Variations, Tips, Tools, FAQs & More
Tips for Microwaving Lentil Stew Perfectly
Let’s troubleshoot common issues. Spoiler: A rogue chickpea once exploded in my microwave. Don’t be like the chickpea.
Stirring Intervals and Container Choices
Stir every 3 minutes to redistribute heat. Use a wide, shallow bowl (like a pasta dish) over a deep mug—spreads ingredients evenly. Glass or ceramic heats better than plastic. Yes, even that souvenir mug from Vegas works. For an even better experience, consider using a microwave glass mug, as it is designed to withstand high temperatures and ensure consistent heating.
Avoiding Splatters and Uneven Heating
Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel—traps steam but lets pressure escape. Place denser veggies (potatoes, carrots) near the bowl’s edge where microwaves hit hardest. If your spinach clumps, poke it with a fork pre-nuking. These little tricks make a big difference when steaming veggies for your cheap microwave canned lentil stew.
Ready to dodge kitchen disasters? Let’s tackle the most common microwave mishaps next—including why metal spoons and lentil stew mix like oil and water. It’s easy to make mistakes with microwave usage that could lead to unsatisfactory results. Understanding which foods are commonly microwaved incorrectly can save time and reduce frustration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Microwaving
We’ve all had microwave mishaps—like the time I accidentally turned my stew into a science experiment. Let’s skip the drama and keep your lentils edible. Cooking lentils in the microwave can be a quick and easy solution for a nutritious meal. With the right timing and a bit of water, perfectly tender lentils are just minutes away.
Overfilling the Bowl or Using Metal
Fill your microwave-safe bowl only two-thirds full. Lentils expand when heated, and nobody wants a lava-like stew eruption. Metal spoons? Big nope. Once, my “quick stir” with a stainless steel fork sparked like a Fourth of July show. Use silicone or wooden utensils instead when handling your cheap microwave canned lentil stew.
Skipping Liquid Adjustments for Canned Lentils
Canned lentils sit in brine, which can make your stew too salty or watery. Always drain and rinse them first. If your mix looks drier than a desert after microwaving 2 minutes, add 2-3 tbsp broth or water. My roommate’s “stew cement” incident taught us this lesson. For a quick meal option, consider combining canned lentils with instant mashed potatoes, which can be prepared easily in the microwave. This combination offers a budget-friendly solution that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Lentil Stew
This stew reheats like a champ—if you avoid the Sahara effect. Here’s how to keep it moist and tasty.
Refrigeration Vs. Freezing Guidelines
Store leftovers in airtight containers. Fridge life: 4 days max. Freeze portions up to 3 months—but expect slightly softer veggies. Pro tip: Label bags with dates unless you enjoy freezer roulette (spoiler: my mystery stew was pumpkin, not tomato).
| Storage Method | Duration | Texture Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 4 days | Minimal |
| Freezing | 3 months | Softer veggies |
Reheating Without Drying Out the Stew
Add 1-2 tsp water or broth before nuking. Cover with a damp paper towel to lock in steam. Microwave at 50% power for 2 minutes, stir, then blast 30 seconds full power. My “zombie morning” reheating hack? Crack an egg on top before microwaving—instant protein upgrade. Taking a moment to properly microwave leftovers not only enhances the flavor but also helps kill harmful germs, making your meal safer to eat.
Now that your leftovers are sorted, let’s explore how to transform this basic stew into a flavor chameleon with just a few add-ins.
Now It’s Your Turn to Try!
Making cheap microwave canned lentil stew is as easy as opening a can and pressing start. With endless flavor variations and a 5-minute cook time, this budget-friendly meal solves the “what’s for dinner” dilemma without heating up the kitchen.
We’d love to hear how your microwave lentil stew turns out—toss in extra spices, experiment with toppings, or keep it classic. Either way, you’re just minutes away from a hearty, wallet-friendly bowl of comfort.
