Lentil Soup Receipe

Ingredients for Your Hearty Lentil Soup

Starting with the basics, here’s what you need to whip up a delicious pot of lentil soup:

• 1 cup of green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
• 6 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional: Lemon wedges, fresh parsley, or spinach for garnish

Steps to Prepare Your Soup

Here’s how to make this lentil soup in an easy, step-by-step process:

1. Sauté the Base: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onions become translucent.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Season: Sprinkle cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Stir well to combine.
4. Add Lentils: Toss in the lentils, give them a good stir to coat with the spices, then add the can of diced tomatoes with their juice.
5. Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for about 30-35 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Finish with Greens: If desired, you can add spinach or kale towards the end for an extra boost of greens. Let them wilt into the soup for 5-10 minutes.
7. Final Touch: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and garnish with a squeeze of lemon or fresh herbs like parsley.

⏲️ Note: Cooking time can vary based on the age of the lentils; older lentils might take longer to soften.

Tips for Enhancing Your Lentil Soup

Enhancing your lentil soup can make a world of difference:

• Flavor Enhancement: Try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of harissa for some heat.
• Protein Boost: Add sausage, pancetta, or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Texture: Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier texture, or leave it chunky for a more rustic feel.
• Garnish: A dollop of yogurt or sour cream can add a nice tang and creaminess.

💧 Note: Lentils absorb a lot of liquid, so you might need to add more broth or water if the soup gets too thick upon reheating.

To sum it up, this lentil soup recipe offers a hearty and nutritious meal packed with flavor. Whether you choose to serve it with bread, over rice, or enjoy it on its own, the combination of vegetables, spices, and the rich texture of lentils makes for a satisfying and versatile dish. Let this recipe guide you to create warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Enjoy the journey from stovetop to table with this timeless classic.

Can I use red lentils instead of brown?

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Yes, red lentils will work too, but they tend to cook faster and disintegrate, resulting in a creamier soup. You might need to adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

How long can I store lentil soup?

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Lentil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool the soup completely before storing.

Is lentil soup good for weight loss?

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Yes, lentil soup can be part of a weight loss diet as it’s low in fat, high in fiber, and can help you feel full longer due to its protein content.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

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Absolutely! Add all ingredients except greens to the slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, then add greens towards the end of cooking time.