Lentil soup is a classic comfort dish that’s both hearty and nourishing. Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, this simple yet flavorful soup makes for a satisfying meal that is perfect for any time of year. Lentils are not only budget-friendly, but they also cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the ingredients around them, making them the perfect base for a filling soup. Whether you’re looking for a warm lunch or a light dinner, this lentil soup recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup dried lentils (green, brown, or red), rinsed
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for a bright finish)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. This helps develop the foundation of flavors for the soup.

Step 2: Add Lentils, Tomatoes, and Broth Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Stir in the cumin, turmeric, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer. Let it cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to make sure the lentils cook evenly.

Step 3: Season and Simmer Once the lentils are cooked through, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use a potato masher to mash some of the lentils in the pot. This will help thicken the soup without blending it completely.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice Stir in a teaspoon of lemon juice to brighten the soup and enhance the flavors. This step is optional, but it adds a wonderful, fresh finish to the dish.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish Ladle the lentil soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Lentil Soup:

1. Use Different Lentils: While this recipe uses green or brown lentils, you can also use red lentils, which cook faster and break down into a softer, thicker soup. Green and brown lentils hold their shape better for a chunkier texture.
2. Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as spinach, kale, zucchini, or potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of vegetables you add.
3. Spices and Herbs: The spices in this recipe are customizable. You can add curry powder for a more Indian-inspired flavor or cumin and coriander for a Middle Eastern twist. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley also work great as garnishes.
4. Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the soup while sautéing the onions and garlic.
5. Make It Vegan: This lentil soup is naturally vegan, but you can make it heartier by adding extra veggies or a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture.

Why Lentil Soup is a Favorite:

Lentil soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making this soup a perfect option for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking for a healthy, filling meal. The spices and herbs provide warmth and depth of flavor, and the vegetables add a pop of color and nutrition.

What makes lentil soup even more appealing is how easy it is to make. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a hearty, satisfying meal ready in under an hour. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping, as leftovers keep well in the fridge and freeze beautifully for future meals.

Lentil soup is a versatile and timeless recipe that will always make you feel good inside. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with a side of bread, this soup is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

So grab a pot, throw in your lentils, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic soup. It’s a simple, healthy dish that never disappoints!