There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of lentil soup to comfort the soul and satisfy the palate. This simple yet flavorful dish has been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries. Made with humble ingredients and packed with nutrients, our lentil soup recipe focuses solely on the star ingredient: lentils. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to become a household favorite.
Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Needed Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Blender or immersion blender (optional)
Ingredients
Lentil Soup Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown or green lentils | 1 cup |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 cloves |
| Carrot, diced | 1 large |
| Celery stalk, diced | 1 stalk |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Vegetable broth or water | 6 cups |
| Bay leaf | 1 leaf |
| Cumin powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and pick out any debris.
- Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the carrot and celery.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add Lentils and Spices
- Stir in the lentils, cumin powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Add Broth and Simmer
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water.
- Add the bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Blend the Soup (Optional)
- Remove the bay leaf.
- For a smoother texture, use a blender or immersion blender to purée the soup partially or entirely.
- Be careful with hot liquids if using a countertop blender.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Recipe Makes 4 Servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 15 g |
| Total Sugars | 4 g |
| Total Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
| Potassium | 600 mg |
| Vitamin A | 80% DV |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 20% DV |
*DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Add-ons
- Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or turmeric for added color and health benefits.
- Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for an aromatic twist.
- Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup before serving to brighten the flavors.
Side Dishes
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
- Salad: A fresh green salad complements the hearty soup.
- Rice: Pour the soup over steamed rice for a more filling meal.
Improvements
- Creaminess: Stir in a dollop of yogurt or cream for a richer texture.
- Vegetable Variations: Add diced potatoes, tomatoes, or spinach to enhance the nutritional profile.
- Protein Boost: Top with grilled tofu or a poached egg for extra protein.
FAQ
Can I use different types of lentils?
Yes, you can use red or yellow lentils, but keep in mind they cook faster and may result in a creamier texture.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How can I make this soup vegan?
The recipe is already vegan if you use vegetable broth. Just ensure any add-ons or side dishes are also vegan-friendly.
What if I don’t have a blender?
No problem. The soup can be enjoyed as is with a chunkier texture, or you can mash some of the lentils with a spoon.
Conclusion
This lentil soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious and easy to make. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is a must-try. So grab your ingredients and enjoy a hearty bowl of homemade lentil soup tonight!
