Name: Best Lentil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 6 cups vegetable broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lentil soup is a timeless classic, offering a perfect balance of warmth, nourishment, and robust flavor. This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It is a one-pot wonder that is naturally vegan, budget-friendly, and adaptable to different ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly day or a healthy dish to include in your weekly rotation, this lentil soup ticks all the boxes.

Ingredients

Lentils
Onion
Carrots
Celery
Garlic
Tomatoes
Vegetable broth
Olive oil
Bay leaves
Cumin
Coriander
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon juice
Fresh parsley

Directions

Prepare the ingredients: Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic.
Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the seasonings: Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices, cooking for another minute to enhance the flavors.
Incorporate the lentils and broth: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30–35 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Finish with fresh flavors: Remove the bay leaves. Stir in lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or a side of rice.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili for extra heat.
Smoky Flavor: Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a deeper taste.
Hearty Boost: Toss in diced potatoes or butternut squash for added texture.
Protein Addition: Mix in chickpeas or shredded cooked chicken for a protein-rich version.
Coconut Twist: Stir in coconut milk for a creamy, slightly sweet variation.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring between each.

FAQs

How do I make lentil soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion using an immersion blender or mash some lentils with a spoon.

Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes! Green, brown, and red lentils all work, but keep in mind that red lentils break down more and create a creamier texture.

Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?

No soaking is required. Lentils cook quickly, but rinsing them beforehand helps remove debris.

What can I serve with lentil soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a simple side salad.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

How can I add more protein?

You can include cooked quinoa, beans, or diced chicken.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your broth is certified gluten-free.

How do I adjust the consistency?

For a thicker soup, reduce the broth amount or let it simmer longer. For a thinner soup, add more broth or water.

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to about 15 minutes since canned lentils are already cooked.

Conclusion

This lentil soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that is both nutritious and comforting. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste. Try this delicious soup today and enjoy a bowl of hearty goodness!

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