Warm, comforting, and filled with wholesome ingredients, this lentil soup recipe is the perfect dish for any season. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup is both easy to make and satisfying. With a blend of spices and fresh vegetables, it brings a delightful flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will warm your heart and nourish your body.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (green or brown)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of this lentil soup provides approximately 200 calories, 12g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 5g fiber. This nutritional information is based on a serving size of 1 cup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Season with ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Check the lentils for tenderness; if needed, simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute green lentils with red lentils for a quicker cooking time. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This lentil soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a dollop of yogurt on top. It also goes well with a side of rice for a heartier meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not rinsing the lentils, which can result in a gritty texture.
- Overcooking the lentils, leading to mushiness.
- Forgetting to season during cooking, which can make the soup bland.
- Using too much water, diluting the flavor.
- Not sautéing the vegetables enough for depth of flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Soak lentils for a few hours to reduce cooking time.
- Experiment with spices for a unique flavor profile.
- For creaminess, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
- Add lemon juice before serving for a fresh twist.
FAQs
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Just add them toward the end of cooking to heat through.
How can I make this soup spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup for a spicy kick.
Can I use meat instead of vegetable broth?
Absolutely! You can use chicken or beef broth for a different flavor.
How long can I store the soup?
Stored properly, lentil soup can last in the fridge for up to 4 days or be frozen for up to 3 months.
Is lentil soup gluten-free?
Yes! Lentil soup is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
This lentil soup recipe offers a hearty and nutritious meal that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it brings comfort and warmth to your table. Enjoy the delightful combination of spices and fresh ingredients that make this dish a favorite for many!
Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils green or brown
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Season with ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Check the lentils for tenderness; if needed, simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.