Lentil Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lentil Soup is both wholesome and flavorful. The earthy lentils absorb the rich flavors of the vegetables and seasonings, making each spoonful satisfying. This soup is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and the flavors only improve over time. It’s also easy to customize—add your favorite vegetables or seasonings to make it your own. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a delicious, hearty meal, this Lentil Soup will hit the spot every time.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 carrots, peeled and diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed

• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional for extra warmth)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped (optional, for added greens)

• Juice of half a lemon (for brightness)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent.

2. Add garlic and spices: Add the minced garlic, cumin, turmeric (if using), thyme, and paprika to the pot. Stir for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant.

3. Add the lentils, tomatoes, and broth: Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer the soup: Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. If needed, add more water or broth during the cooking process to maintain the desired consistency.

5. Add greens: If you’re using spinach or kale, stir it into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Let the greens wilt and soften.

6. Season and serve: Once the lentils are tender, taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more spices as needed. Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

7. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 40 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for an extra kick of heat.

• Meat option: Add cooked sausage, bacon, or ground turkey for a meatier version of the soup.

• Coconut version: For a creamier soup, stir in a can of coconut milk during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

• Herb variations: Try adding a bay leaf, rosemary, or sage for a different herbal flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover lentil soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit more broth or water if needed to thin it out. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown lentils?

Yes, you can use red lentils, but they cook faster and break down more easily, creating a softer, more pureed texture. If using red lentils, you may want to reduce the cooking time by about 10 minutes.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. After sautéing the vegetables, add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld. Make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

4. Can I freeze Lentil Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add a variety of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and add them with the carrots and celery.

6. Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan, as it is made with vegetable broth and does not contain any animal products. Just make sure to check that the broth is vegan-friendly.

7. Can I make this soup spicier?

Yes, you can increase the spice level by adding red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a chopped chili pepper to the soup. Adjust to your desired heat level.

8. How can I make the soup creamier?

To make the soup creamier, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender. This will give the soup a creamy consistency without adding dairy.

9. How do I know when the lentils are done?

Lentils are done when they are tender and no longer crunchy. Test a few lentils by biting into them to check for doneness. If needed, add more broth or water and continue simmering until they are fully cooked.

10. Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned lentils to speed up the process. Drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking, just to heat them through.

Conclusion

Lentil Soup is a nourishing, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. The earthy lentils, tender vegetables, and warming spices create a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you enjoy it on a cold day or need a filling meal for the week, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s also highly customizable, so you can adapt it to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Enjoy a warm bowl of this wholesome soup with your favorite bread for a complete and hearty meal.