Immune-Boosting Golden Stew

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra warmth)
• 2 large sweet potatoes, cubed
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup red lentils (protein and fiber)
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14oz) coconut milk
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Pumpkin seeds (zinc for immune support)
• Hemp hearts
• Lemon wedges
• A pinch of black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and ginger, cook for another minute until fragrant.
   
2. Stir in turmeric, cumin, and cayenne. Cook for 30 seconds until aromatic - this step releases the full flavor of the spices.
   
3. Add sweet potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper. Stir to coat with the spiced oil mixture.
   
4. Add red lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender and lentils are cooked through.
5. Add spinach/kale and broccoli in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, pumpkin seeds, hemp hearts, and a squeeze of lemon. Don't forget that pinch of black pepper to boost turmeric absorption!

Nutritional Breakdown per serving (recipe serves 4-6, breakdown for 1/5 of recipe):

*Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes. 

DV = Daily Value based on 2,000 calorie diet 

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