Warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients, this Lentil Soup Recipe is a fantastic choice for any day of the week. Lentils are not only delicious but also a great source of protein and fiber. This soup is easy to prepare and will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or meal prep. Let’s dive into the delicious world of lentils and create a soup that is both satisfying and healthy!
Ingredients
– 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of this lentil soup contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 8g
– Fat: 3g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.
4. Add rinsed lentils to the pot and stir well.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and add cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
8. Stir occasionally, adding more broth if necessary.
9. Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute green or brown lentils with red lentils for a quicker cooking time. Additionally, feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients. For a non-vegetarian version, you can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
Serving and Pairings
This lentil soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a filling lunch option. A dollop of yogurt or sour cream on top adds a nice creaminess.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to restore consistency.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking lentils can lead to mushiness; keep an eye on them!
– Not rinsing lentils might introduce dirt; always rinse before cooking.
– Forgetting to season can result in bland soup; taste and adjust seasonings.
– Using too much liquid can dilute flavors; stick to the recipe’s broth amount.
– Skipping the sauté step can miss out on depth of flavor.
Helpful Tips
– For added flavor, use homemade broth if possible.
– Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or bay leaves.
– Add more vegetables for a heartier soup.
– Always taste before serving to adjust seasonings.
FAQs
Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned lentils, but reduce the cooking time, as they are already cooked. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to heat through.
Is lentil soup vegan?
Yes, this lentil soup is entirely vegan if you use vegetable broth and omit any dairy toppings.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of soy sauce for depth. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also enhance the flavor.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it with an immersion blender, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Conclusion
This Lentil Soup Recipe is not only nourishing but also incredibly versatile and simple to make. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy this comforting dish any day of the week!
Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Add rinsed lentils to the pot and stir well.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and add cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- Stir occasionally, adding more broth if necessary.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
