Delicious Lentil Soup : Hearty, Flavorful, and Nutritious
When the weather turns cold or you’re craving a nourishing meal, this Delicious Lentil Soup is the perfect go-to recipe. This comforting soup is loaded with tender lentils, savory vegetables, and fragrant spices, making it a satisfying and healthy dish that’s sure to warm you from the inside out
Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils green or brown
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 2 carrots peeled and diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach or kale optional
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the lentils under cold water and set them aside. Dice the onion, carrots, and garlic. If using, chop the spinach or kale.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
- Add the Lentils and Tomatoes: Add the rinsed lentils and canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables and spices.
- Add the Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in the spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted. For a touch of brightness, add a tablespoon of lemon juice just before serving.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot. Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
For Extra Flavor: Toast the spices in the pot for 1-2 minutes before adding the lentils and tomatoes. This will bring out the flavors and enhance the depth of the soup.
Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade vegetable broth for the best flavor, but store-bought broth works fine if you’re short on time.
Texture Adjustments: If you like a chunkier soup, you can blend only a portion of it, leaving some lentils intact for texture.
Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade vegetable broth for the best flavor, but store-bought broth works fine if you’re short on time.
Texture Adjustments: If you like a chunkier soup, you can blend only a portion of it, leaving some lentils intact for texture.