Lentil soup is a nourishing and flavorful dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any season, providing a rich source of protein and fiber. With its earthy flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a great choice for a cozy dinner or a meal prep option. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this lentil soup recipe approachable and satisfying.
Ingredients
– 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of this lentil soup contains approximately 220 calories, 10g of protein, 40g of carbohydrates, 7g of fiber, and 4g of fat. This nutritional breakdown is based on a serving size of 1 cup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add rinsed lentils, broth, cumin, and paprika to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, until lentils are tender.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
8. Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, if desired.
9. Serve hot, garnished with extra lemon wedges if preferred.
10. Enjoy your delicious lentil soup!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute green or brown lentils with red lentils for a quicker cook time. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach or kale for extra nutrition. If you prefer a non-vegetarian option, you can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
Serving and Pairings
This lentil soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. For added flavor, top with croutons or a dollop of yogurt. It also complements grilled cheese sandwiches or a simple cheese platter.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore consistency.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not rinsing lentils can lead to gritty soup.
- Overcooking can make lentils mushy; keep an eye on them.
- Too much salt can overpower the dish; season gradually.
- Skipping aromatics like garlic and onion reduces flavor depth.
- Not tasting before serving can lead to unbalanced seasoning.
Helpful Tips
- Use homemade broth for a richer flavor.
- Adjust spices based on your preference for heat.
- Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals.
- Try adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lentils for a quicker preparation. Just rinse and add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through.
How do I make lentil soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, you can blend a portion of it and stir it back in or add more lentils to cook longer.
Can I add meat to this lentil soup?
Absolutely! You can add cooked sausage, ham, or chicken for extra protein and flavor.
Is lentil soup healthy?
Yes, lentil soup is very healthy! It’s high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a nutritious choice.
How long does lentil soup last in the fridge?
Lentil soup can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This lentil soup recipe is not only easy to prepare but is also packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways, making it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this comforting soup will surely delight everyone at the table.
Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils rinsed
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add rinsed lentils, broth, cumin, and paprika to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, until lentils are tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
- Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra lemon wedges if preferred.
- Enjoy your delicious lentil soup!
Nutrition
