Veggie Living - Lentils and Sweet Potatoes Braised in Smoky Tomato

Lentils and Sweet Potatoes Braised in Smoky Tomato
This is good over brown rice, quinoa, or simply on it's own. It really needs some sort of green side as a complement for a full meal.

Serves 6-8

2 Tbls canola oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 1/2 cup brown lentils
1 28oz can diced tomatoes (or 5-6 medium tomatoes cored and diced)
4 cups water or stock
3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
salt to taste.

Heat the oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Cook the onion and garlic, stirring frequently. It is fine for the onions to brown and sear a bit but don't let them actually burn. When the onions are soft add the red pepper flakes and paprika stirring constantly until fragrant - about 30 seconds.

Add the lentils, tomatoes, and water. Bring to a boil then lower the heat so that the mixture bubbles gently. Cook until the lentils begin to soften - between 10 and 20 minutes. Add sweet potatoes and continue to simmer until the lentils and sweet potatoes are fully cooked - another 10 or 20 minutes typically.

Add salt to taste and serve.