February 6, 2024
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Greetings, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, we embark on a culinary escapade, venturing into the heartwarming world of a beloved classic: Lentil Soup. Picture this – a simmering pot on your stovetop, wafts of savory goodness filling your kitchen, and the promise of a soul-satisfying bowl brimming with nourishment. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to cozy comforts and the joy of sharing a delightful meal with those you love.
Ease meets exquisite flavor in this Lentil Soup recipe, making it a culinary gem for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices alike. With its straightforward preparation and readily available ingredients, crafting a pot of this soup is a breeze. Yet, don’t let the simplicity fool you—each spoonful boasts a symphony of rich, savory notes that dance on your taste buds. It’s a testament to the beauty of uncomplicated recipes that effortlessly deliver a delicious, comforting experience. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight meal or aiming to impress with minimal effort, this Lentil Soup is the epitome of culinary magic where simplicity and delectable taste harmoniously coexist.
Lentil Soup Ingredient Notes
- Lentils: Choose green or brown lentils for their earthy flavor and ability to hold their shape during cooking.
- Vegetables (Onion, Bell Pepper, Carrot, Celery): This colorful quartet adds depth and nutrition. The combination of sweet bell pepper, aromatic onion, crunchy carrot, and celery creates a harmonious vegetable medley.
- Chopped Tomatoes: Opt for canned chopped tomatoes to infuse the soup with a rich, tangy flavor. This pantry staple adds a burst of freshness.
- Garlic: The aromatic garlic cloves bring a robust and savory dimension to the soup, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
- Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil to impart a fruity richness and enhance the silkiness of the soup.
- Paprika: Paprika lends a warm, smoky note that complements the earthiness of the lentils and vegetables.
- Bay Leaves: These aromatic leaves infuse the soup with a subtle herbal essence, adding complexity to the flavor.
- Cumin: The warm and slightly nutty flavor of cumin harmonizes with the other spices, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
- Lemon or Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors, providing a refreshing and zesty finish.
- Salt: Season according to taste, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.
Tips for Making Lentil Soup
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Before cooking, rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any excess starch, ensuring a clearer broth and preventing the soup from becoming too thick.
- Sauté Aromatics First: Start by sautéing the onion, garlic, and spices in olive oil. This foundational step builds a flavorful base for the soup.
- Low and Slow Simmer: Simmer the soup over low heat, allowing the lentils to absorb the flavors of the vegetables and spices. This slow-cooking method results in a rich and hearty consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Lentils absorb salt, so it’s essential to add it gradually and taste along the way.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup. This adds a bright, citrusy note that enhances the overall taste.
Lentil Soup Healthy Benefits
- Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making this soup a nutritious option for those seeking protein-rich, meat-free meals.
- Packed with fiber, lentils promote digestive health and contribute to a feeling of fullness, supporting weight management.
- The medley of vegetables in the soup provides a spectrum of vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall well-being.
- Olive oil, a key component of the recipe, adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, promoting cardiovascular health.
- Lentil soup is a satisfying and low-calorie option, making it suitable for those aiming for weight-conscious choices.
Lentil Soup Equipment You Will Need
- Large Soup Pot: (here) A spacious pot is essential to accommodate the volume of ingredients and allow for proper simmering.
- Wooden Spoon: (here) A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking.
- Citrus Juicer: (here) A citrus juicer comes in handy for extracting fresh lemon juice, providing the perfect finishing touch to your lentil soup.
This simple yet nourishing recipe encapsulates the essence of comfort in every spoonful. Whether you savor it as a wholesome meal or share it with loved ones, this Lentil Soup is a testament to the joy found in the simplicity of a well-crafted bowl of goodness. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the art of slow simmering, and let the aroma of this hearty soup fill your kitchen with warmth.
Looking for more soup recipes? Tap HERE.
Lentil Soup
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
This easy yet flavorful Lentil Soup is ready to grace your table with its heartiness. Embrace the simplicity of the cooking process, and relish the delicious results with every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (400g) lentils (green or brown)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Lemon (lime) juice, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and continue sautéing until aromatic.
- Stir in paprika, cumin, and bay leaves, letting the spices coat the vegetables, enhancing their flavors.
- Toss in chopped tomatoes, carrots, and celery, allowing them to mingle with the aromatic base.
- Introduce the rinsed lentils to the pot. Stir to combine with the vegetables and spices, creating a hearty mixture.
- Add enough water or vegetable broth to cover the ingredients. Bring the pot to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- After about 25–30 minutes, check the lentils for doneness. They should be tender but not mushy.
- Season the soup with salt to taste and a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- If desired, garnish the soup with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. Ladle into bowls, and savor the wholesome goodness of your homemade Lentil Soup.
- Serve the Lentil Soup hot, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread on the side. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors that makes this soup a comforting classic.
Notes
- This Lentil Soup recipe strikes the perfect balance between quick preparation and savory simmering, making it an ideal choice for a delicious and time-efficient meal. In just under an hour, you'll be savoring the comforting aroma and wholesome flavors of this delightful soup.
- Store the soup in the refrigerator promptly, ideally within two hours of preparation. Refrigerated Lentil Soup stays fresh for 3–4 days.
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