Lentil soup is a timeless dish that combines the earthy flavors of lentils with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables.
This vegetarian-friendly recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a hearty lunch. Dive into this simple yet flavorful dish that’s packed with nutrients and warmth.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Serves: 4–6 persons
Health Benefits of Lentil Soup
Why This Dish Is Good for You
Lentil soup is a nutritional powerhouse, offering an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins like iron and folate.
The lentils help regulate digestion and stabilize blood sugar levels, while the addition of vegetables such as carrots, celery, and tomatoes provides antioxidants and vital nutrients.
This soup is low in fat and calories, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a healthy, filling meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Execution
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), cumin, turmeric, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine and let the mixture cook for 2–3 minutes to release the aromas.
- Build the Soup Base: Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season and Adjust: Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the Soup: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Additional Tips
- For added texture, stir in some cooked rice or quinoa during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Experiment with different spices like paprika, coriander, or red pepper flakes for a unique twist.
- Use canned lentils if you’re short on time, though dried lentils provide a richer flavor.
