Hearty Lentil Soup
A bowl of hearty lentil soup can warm you up from the inside out. It’s rich in fiber, packed with vegetables, and it has the kind of flavor that you can only get from slow cooking. Here’s how to make the perfect lentil soup at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: Fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- Optional: Lemon juice for serving
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hearty Lentil Soup
Follow these steps to create your delicious, homemade lentil soup:
1. Preparation:
- Clean the lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any debris or dust.
- Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop the onions, dice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
3. Add Spices and Lentils:
- Mix in the cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let these spices toast for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
- Add the lentils to the pot and stir them around to get them well coated with the spices and vegetables.
4. Cooking:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and the vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
- If you like, add in some chopped spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the lentils are cooked, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. A squeeze of lemon juice can add a bright note to your soup.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish as desired (maybe with a dollop of yogurt or some fresh herbs), and serve hot.
❗ Note: Lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this soup not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious.
Wrapping Up
This recipe for hearty lentil soup is a testament to the comfort that can be found in a simple bowl of soup. It’s easy to make, can be prepared in advance, and is suitable for various dietary needs, making it a versatile choice for any meal. With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and heartwarming essence, this lentil soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Can I use different types of lentils for this soup?
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Yes, you can! While green lentils are traditional, you can also use brown or red lentils. Just be aware that red lentils will break down more, giving you a creamier texture.
How can I thicken my lentil soup?
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If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can either blend a portion of the soup (or all of it) with an immersion blender or mash some of the lentils against the side of the pot with a spoon before serving.
Is this soup freezer friendly?
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Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely, store it in freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in a microwave.
What can I serve with lentil soup?
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Lentil soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a green salad, or even some naan or pita bread for a more comforting meal.
Can I make this soup vegan?
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Yes, this recipe is already vegan if you use vegetable broth. Just ensure that all your ingredients are vegan-friendly, and it’s perfect for a plant-based diet.
