Lentil soup is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for any season, providing nourishment and comfort in every spoonful. This timeless favorite is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly versatile, making it a staple in many kitchens. With the wholesome goodness of lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, this soup promises a delightful experience that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 215
- Protein: 11 grams
- Carbohydrates: 36 grams
- Fat: 6 grams
- Fiber: 15 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 480 mg
Why Make This Lentil Soup
Making lentil soup is a fantastic choice for numerous reasons. Not only is it packed with protein and fiber, but it’s also budget-friendly and easy to prepare. Lentils come in various colors and sizes, allowing you to customize the soup to your liking. The aromatic blend of vegetables and spices transforms a simple ingredient into something special, creating a nourishing meal that warms the soul. This soup is perfect for meal prep; a batch can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week.
How to Make Lentil Soup
Follow these easy steps to create a delicious lentil soup that will soon become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any dust or debris, then set them aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Adding Flavors
Stir in the minced garlic and cumin, cooking for an additional minute until the garlic becomes aromatic and slightly golden.
Step 4: Cooking the Soup
Add the lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is delightful on its own or paired with some crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside cheese toast or grilled sandwiches. A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of lemon juice can enhance the flavor, adding a fresh twist.
How to Store Lentil Soup
Store any leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and keep it frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot.
Expert Tips for Perfect Lentil Soup
- Choosing Lentils: Brown or green lentils work well in this recipe as they hold their shape. Avoid red lentils if you prefer the soup with a chunky texture.
- Veggies Galore: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor by adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves, or spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Creamy Soup: Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture while leaving some lentils whole for bite.
- Garnish: Fresh herbs like cilantro or dill can give the soup a refreshing taste.
Delicious Variations
- Italian Style: Add diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning for a cozy, tomato-based version.
- Spicy Lentil Soup: Incorporate a bit of chili powder or diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Coconut Lentil Soup: Substitute coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture and exotic flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?
Yes, dried lentils are great for this recipe. Just be sure to rinse and cook them as directed. -
How can I thicken the soup?
You can blend a small portion of the soup and return it to the pot to thicken, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. -
Is lentil soup gluten-free?
Yes, this lentil soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth. -
What types of lentils are best for soup?
Brown or green lentils hold their shape well, while red lentils can give a creamier texture. -
How can I make this dish vegetarian/vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring no animal-derived broth is used.
Conclusion
Lentil soup offers a hearty, nutritious option that is easy to prepare and delightful to eat. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s no wonder that this dish has remained a beloved favorite for generations. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or as a comforting weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. So gather your ingredients, and give this comforting lentil soup a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Hearty Lentil Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and hearty lentil soup packed with flavor and nourishing ingredients, perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any dust or debris, then set them aside.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cumin, cooking for an additional minute until the garlic becomes aromatic and slightly golden.
- Add the lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Global
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
