Creamy Lentil Soup Recipe
Welcome to Love With Recipes, where we bring you the best of wholesome and comforting dishes. Today, we’re diving into the art of preparing a delectable Creamy Lentil Soup, a dish that’s both hearty and nutritious. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or as a satisfying starter for any occasion. Let’s explore the full process in detail to bring this creamy delight to your table.
Recipe Details
| Category | Servings |
|---|---|
| Main Course (Soup) | 4 People |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dry Lentils | 250g |
| Carrot | 1 |
| Celery Stalk | 1 |
| Shallot | 1 |
| Ground Turmeric | 1 tsp |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | As needed |
| Water | 5 liters |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Bread Slices | 8 |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for bread) | As needed |
| Fine Salt (for bread) | To taste |
| Oregano (optional, for bread) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 13g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 43g |
| Fiber | 12g |
| Sodium | Varies |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
-
Rinse the Lentils
Begin by thoroughly rinsing the lentils under cold running water. This helps to remove any debris and excess starch. Set the cleaned lentils aside. -
-
Prepare the Aromatic Vegetables
Peel and clean the carrot, celery stalk, and shallot. Using a sharp knife, chop them coarsely to create a rustic vegetable medley that will serve as the base of the soup. -
Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté them gently for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The goal is to soften the vegetables and release their fragrant aromas. -
Add Turmeric and Lentils
Sprinkle the ground turmeric into the pot and mix well to coat the sautéed vegetables. This step enhances the flavor profile with a warm, earthy note. Next, add the rinsed lentils and stir to combine. -
Cook the Soup Base
Pour in 5 liters of water, ensuring the lentils are fully submerged. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. -
Blend the Soup
Once the lentils are tender, season the soup with fine salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to blend the mixture into a creamy consistency. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Preparing the Bread Croutons
-
Slice the Bread
Take the bread slices and cut them to your preferred thickness, aiming for uniform sizes for even toasting. -
Toast the Bread
Preheat your oven to 240°C (grill setting). Arrange the bread slices on a baking tray and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle fine salt and, if desired, a pinch of oregano for added flavor. Toast the bread for 3–4 minutes, monitoring closely to avoid burning. If you don’t have a grill setting, place the tray on the top rack of the oven and keep a watchful eye as the bread toasts.
Serving the Dish
-
Plate the Soup
Ladle the creamy lentil soup into serving bowls. Top each portion with the freshly toasted croutons, ensuring an even distribution for all guests. -
Add a Finishing Touch
Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the soup just before serving for a silky sheen and added depth of flavor. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional black pepper, if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose Your Lentils Wisely: Green or brown lentils work best for this recipe as they hold their shape during cooking. Avoid red lentils, which tend to dissolve completely.
- Customize Your Croutons: Experiment with different bread types, such as sourdough or multigrain, for unique flavor variations.
- Enhance the Flavor: A dash of smoked paprika or cumin can elevate the soup’s depth if you enjoy bold flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Lentil Soup isn’t just a bowl of comfort; it’s a nutritious powerhouse packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Its velvety texture and aromatic undertones, paired with the crunch of golden croutons, make it an irresistible addition to any meal plan.
Serve it as a standalone dish for a light dinner or pair it with a crisp salad and a glass of wine for an elegant dining experience. Whatever the occasion, this recipe promises to warm hearts and satisfy appetites with every spoonful.
Dive into the joy of cooking with Love With Recipes, where every dish is crafted with passion and precision. Bon appétit!
