Curried Lentil, Swiss Chard and Chickpea Stew

This stew is even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. It's hearty and healthy!

For this recipe you’ll need:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  1 onion, medium dice

  1 parsnip, peeled and cut into medium dice

  1 carrot, peeled and cut into medium dice

  1/2 bunch Swiss chard, stems cut into medium dice and leaves cut into chiffonade

  1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated

  2 cloves garlic, minced

  1/2 to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes

  1 teaspoon ground cumin

  1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  1 teaspoon curry powder

  2 tablespoons tomato paste

  5 to 6 cups vegetable stock

  1/4 teaspoon saffron

  1 small or 1/2 large sweet potato, cut into medium dice

  3/4 cup red lentils

  One 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  Lemon juice to taste

  Salt and pepper to taste

  2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, rough chopped