Lentil Soup

Picture a pot of lentil soup simmering on the stove, its rich and earthy aroma filling the kitchen.

There’s something irresistibly comforting about this Mediterranean classic, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make.

This cozy dish combines simple ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and spices, transforming them into a hearty, flavorful masterpiece.

As the flavors meld together, it becomes a nourishing embrace in a bowl.

Let’s bring this delicious soup to life!

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 large pot
• 1 wooden spoon
• 1 knife
• 1 cutting board
• 1 measuring cup
• 1 ladle

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking lentil soup, you can follow this timeline:

1. Reading and Preparation (5 minutes)
   • Read through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients.
   • Gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients.
2. Prep Work (15 minutes)
   • Rinse 1 cup of lentils.
   • Chop 1 large onion.
   • Dice 2 carrots and 2 celery stalks.
   • Mince 3 cloves of garlic.
   • Measure out 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon each of cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
   • Open and measure the canned diced tomatoes (14 ounces).
   • Measure 4 cups of vegetable broth.
3. Cooking (45 minutes)
   • 0-5 minutes: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • 5-15 minutes: Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot and sauté until softened.
   • 15-16 minutes: Stir in minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika; cook for another minute.
   • 16-20 minutes: Add rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot; bring to a boil.
   • 20-55 minutes: Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 30-35 minutes until the lentils are tender.
4. Finishing Touches (5 minutes)
   • Remove the bay leaf and stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice.
   • Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Recipe Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot and sauté until softened.

Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika and cook for another minute.

Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to the pot.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot.

Cook the soup for about 30-35 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Remove the bay leaf and stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice.

Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Tips

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping and to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
• Quinoa: Add a scoop of cooked quinoa for extra protein and a hearty texture.
• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for a savory, cheesy touch.
• Chili Flakes: Offer a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Storage

To store lentil soup, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze in portions, ensuring it cools completely before sealing.

Freezing

To freeze lentil soup, let it cool completely.

Then transfer to airtight containers.

Label with the date.

Ascertain a bit of headspace.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat lentil soup, gently warm it over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Alternatively, microwave on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until evenly heated.

Final Thoughts

Lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that embodies the best of Mediterranean cuisine.

Its rich flavors come from the combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and tender lentils, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

By following these simple steps and using quality ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious homemade soup that warms the soul.

Remember, lentil soup can be stored for several days, allowing you to savor its goodness beyond the initial serving.

Enjoy the process of making this delightful dish and sharing it with loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Chicken Broth for Vegetable Broth?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth. It adds a richer, savory depth. Make certain it complements other ingredients, maintaining flavor harmony. Adjust seasonings for balance. Always taste and refine, focusing on ingredient synergy.

How Can I Make the Soup Thicker?

To thicken the soup, mash some lentils or add puréed vegetables like carrots. A tablespoon of tomato paste can enhance flavor while thickening. Simmer uncovered briefly to reduce liquid, achieving the desired consistency.

Is It Possible to Use Canned Lentils?

You can definitely use canned lentils. Just reduce the cooking time since they’re already tender. Rinse them to remove excess salt. Adjust spices, as canned lentils might alter the soup’s seasoning balance. Enjoy your flavorful dish!

Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?

You can definitely add other vegetables. Consider using zucchini or bell peppers for extra layers of flavor. Just make sure they complement the existing spices and don’t overpower the lentils. Adjust cooking times to maintain their texture.

Is This Soup Gluten-Free?

Yes, it’s gluten-free since there are no gluten-containing ingredients. Focus on using high-quality lentils and fresh vegetables for best flavor. Don’t forget to double-check any packaged ingredients for unexpected gluten additives.