Spicy sausage and lentil casserole

Method

1. Heat the oil in a large flameproof casserole (with a lid) over a medium-high heat, add the sausages and brown all over. Transfer to a plate, leaving the oil in the casserole.
2. Add the onion, carrot, garlic and chilli flakes to the casserole, cover and cook gently for 10 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
3. Take off the lid and stir in the cumin, paprika and tomato purée, then cook for 1 minute. Stir in the red lentils, chicken stock, chopped tomatoes and sausages and bring to a simmer, stirring to stop the lentils sticking to the base of the casserole.
4. Cover and simmer for 40 minutes until the sausages are tender, the lentils are cooked and the sauce is thick. If the sauce looks watery, cook for 10 minutes with the lid off to thicken it. Stir in the puy lentils and most of the parsley and season to taste with salt and pepper. Scatter over the remaining parsley and serve with garlic bread, couscous or rice.