Lentil Soup
Lentil Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and comforting dish that has found its place in many cultures around the world, with each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe. This soup combines the earthy flavors of lentils with the freshness of vegetables and the richness of spices, simmered together to create a meal that is both satisfying and healthy. Lentils, being a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, make this soup an excellent choice for anyone looking for a meat-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste or substance.
The beauty of Lentil Soup lies in its versatility. It can be made with any variety of lentils, each adding its own color and texture to the dish. Whether you prefer the soup chunky or smooth, spicy or mild, the basic combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices can be adjusted to suit your taste. This soup is often enjoyed as a warming meal during the cold months, but it’s also light enough to be a part of your summer diet, making it a perfect year-round dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils (brown, green, or red)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-wise Process
- Rinse Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin and coriander, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaf, diced tomatoes with their juice, and tomato paste to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Final Touches: Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup if a smoother consistency is desired. Stir in the lemon juice.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Servings
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Time Required
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Important Points to remember while making Lentil Soup
- Soaking the lentils beforehand is not necessary, but rinsing them is crucial to remove any dust or debris.
- Adjust the consistency of the soup to your liking by blending more for a smoother soup or less for a chunkier texture.
- The acidity of the tomatoes and lemon juice not only adds a brightness to the flavor but also helps in the absorption of iron from the lentils.
How to Serve Lentil Soup
Serve Lentil Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. The soup also stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers that can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Closing Thoughts
Lentil Soup is a testament to the simplicity and nourishment that can be found in a bowl of soup. Its rich flavors, nutritional value, and comforting warmth make it a beloved dish for many. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy lunch option, or a comforting meal to share with friends and family, Lentil Soup is a versatile and satisfying choice that will leave you feeling nourished and content.
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