Lentil Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Lentil Soup. I remember those chilly winter evenings when my mom would simmer a pot on the stove, filling the house with the most inviting aromas. The earthy scent of simmering lentils, fragrant spices, and fresh vegetables would wrap around me like a cozy blanket, beckoning me to the dinner table. Whether it was a quick weeknight meal or a special gathering with family, this Lentil Soup always brought us together, nourishing not just our bodies but also our spirits.

Ingredients Required for Lentil Soup

When it comes to making a delicious Lentil Soup, the ingredients play a crucial role. The combination of earthy lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Each ingredient complements the other, resulting in a soup that warms the soul. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this delightful recipe.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: A healthy fat that helps sauté the vegetables and brings richness to the soup.
• 1 large onion (chopped): Provides a sweet, aromatic base for the soup.
• 1 medium carrot (chopped): Adds natural sweetness and color.
• 2 stalks celery (chopped): Contributes a crunchy texture and savory flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the soup with a fragrant depth.
• ½ teaspoon coriander: Adds a hint of citrusy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric: Offers an earthy flavor and beautiful golden hue.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Introduces a warm, nutty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Delivers a smoky undertone that enhances the soup’s richness.
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste): Adds a touch of heat.
• 1 ½ cups dry lentils: The star of the soup, providing protein and texture.
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth, low sodium): The liquid gold that brings all the flavors together.
• 2 bay leaves (dried): Infuses the soup with a subtle, herbal flavor.
• 14 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can): Adds acidity and a rich, tomato flavor.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed): Brightens the soup and balances the flavors.

Recipe Directions for Lentil Soup

Making a pot of Lentil Soup is a simple yet fulfilling experience. Follow these steps to create a nourishing meal that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to taste along the way and adjust seasonings to your liking!

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a Dutch Oven or a soup pot over medium heat. Watch as it shimmers, signaling it’s ready for the next ingredients.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook them for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, releasing its sweet aroma.
3. Next, toss in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another thirty seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to brown slightly.
4. Now, it’s time to spice things up! Add the coriander, turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the vegetables.
5. Pour in the dry lentils followed by the vegetable broth. Add bay leaves and crushed tomatoes. Stir until everything is well combined.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, keeping a keen eye on it. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. This is where the magic happens!
7. Let it simmer for about thirty-five to forty minutes, or until the lentils are soft and tender, absorbing all that delicious flavor. Stir occasionally, and be sure to check the consistency. You want it hearty but not too thick.
8. When the lentils are perfectly cooked, discard the bay leaves and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. This adds a bright note to your soup.
9. Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. It’s all about balancing those flavors.
10. Finally, garnish your Lentil Soup with fresh parsley or sliced green onions and serve hot, enjoying the warmth and richness that fills your bowl.

Make It Your Own

Every bowl of Lentil Soup can be a unique experience. Here are some tips to help you personalize it to your liking:

• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mix for a spicy kick.
• Herb variations: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added for an aromatic twist.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for three to four days or frozen for longer-term storage.
• Freezing: Portion the soup before freezing to make reheating easy. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before warming up.
• Pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.

Serving This Lentil Soup

Serving a delicious bowl of Lentil Soup can be a delightful experience. Here are some fantastic ideas for how to present it:

• Presentation Matters: Ladle the soup into warm bowls and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
• Pair with Fresh Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping, enhancing the comforting experience.
• Perfect for Lunch: This soup makes a great lunch option, especially during the cold months. It’s filling yet light.
• Occasion-friendly: Ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in.
• Seasonal Pairings: In winter, enjoy it with roasted vegetables, while in spring, a fresh salad can brighten the meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Lentil Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, bringing together vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for cozy nights at home or to share with family and friends. I encourage you to give it a try; it’s not just a meal, but a way to connect with those you love around the dinner table.

Lentil Soup

The ultimate comfort food, this Lentil Soup is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. Bursting with nutritious vegetables and spices, it's an easy weeknight dinner that warms the soul. Try it tonight for a nourishing meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion chopped
• 1 medium carrot chopped
• 2 stalks celery chopped
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• ½ teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
• ½ teaspoon pepper or to taste
• 1 ½ cups dry lentils
• 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth, low sodium
• 2 bay leaves dried
• 14 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed

Equipment

• 6-quart Dutch Oven

Method

 

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a Dutch Oven or a soup pot over medium heat. Watch as it shimmers, signaling it's ready for the next ingredients.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook them for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, releasing its sweet aroma.
3. Next, toss in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another thirty seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to brown slightly.
4. Now, it's time to spice things up! Add the coriander, turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the vegetables.
5. Pour in the dry lentils followed by the vegetable broth. Add bay leaves and crushed tomatoes. Stir until everything is well combined.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, keeping a keen eye on it. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. This is where the magic happens!
7. Let it simmer for about thirty-five to forty minutes, or until the lentils are soft and tender, absorbing all that delicious flavor. Stir occasionally, and be sure to check the consistency. You want it hearty but not too thick.
8. When the lentils are perfectly cooked, discard the bay leaves and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. This adds a bright note to your soup.
9. Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. It’s all about balancing those flavors.
10. Finally, garnish your Lentil Soup with fresh parsley or sliced green onions and serve hot, enjoying the warmth and richness that fills your bowl.

Notes

• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. This helps preserve freshness.
• Freezing: Portion the soup before freezing to make reheating easy. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before warming up.
• Pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.

Previous PostTagalong Peanut Butter Parfaits

Next Post Cannoli Cream Dip

Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!