Sausage Lentil Stew

A thick, slightly spicy, hearty stew, perfect for chilly days.

yield: 6 servings

1 lb turkey kielbasa, thinly sliced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery ribs, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp canola oil
3 cups water
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 14.5-oz can chicken broth
1 cup dry lentils
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cumin
1/8 tsp crushed red pepper
28-oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
4-oz can chopped green chilies

1. Heat canola oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat; sauté kielbasa, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic until vegetables are almost tender (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in the water, potatoes, chicken broth, lentils, salt, cumin, and red pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes or until potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally. Add tomatoes and chilies; heat thoroughly.