Cozy Lentil Soup Recipe: A Warm Hug in Every Bowl

There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of lentil soup. Picture this: you’re curled up on the couch, wearing your favorite fuzzy socks, and the aroma of savory spices wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a warm hug. The lentils are tender, and the broth is rich with flavor, making each spoonful a cozy little adventure. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a lunch that needs a little pep, this dish brings comfort like no other.

Now let me take you back to my first encounter with lentil soup. It was one of those days when I felt like I could conquer the world—or at least my kitchen. Armed with nothing but determination and an old cookbook, I dove into crafting my own version of this hearty delight. Fast forward to today, and here I am sharing this recipe with you! It’s perfect for those moments where you need something nourishing without breaking the bank or your sanity.

Ingredients for lentil soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Green or Brown Lentils: These legumes are packed with protein and fiber; they hold their shape well during cooking.
• Carrots: Sweet and colorful, they add texture and earthiness to the soup; look for firm ones without blemishes.
• Celery: This crunchy vegetable brings freshness; choose crisp stalks for the best flavor.
• Onion: A staple in many recipes, it adds depth; yellow onions work best for their balanced sweetness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives your soup an aromatic kick; always opt for whole bulbs instead of pre-minced varieties.
• Canned Tomatoes: They provide acidity and richness; go for diced tomatoes in juice for optimal flavor.
• Vegetable Broth: This forms the base of your soup; choose low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
• Olive Oil: A splash helps sauté veggies and enhances overall flavor; extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its robust taste.
• Spices (Cumin, Thyme): These spices elevate the dish with warmth and complexity; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make lentil soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and toss in diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until they soften—about five minutes—stirring occasionally. Breathe in that heavenly aroma!

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once your veggies have softened up nicely, stir in minced garlic along with cumin and thyme. Sauté for another minute until fragrant—this is where the magic happens!

Step 3: Combine Lentils and Tomatoes

Add rinsed lentils along with canned tomatoes (juice included) into the pot. Give everything a good stir so those flavors start mingling together like old friends at a reunion.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Pour in vegetable broth (about four cups) and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover your pot—let it simmer gently for about twenty-five minutes or until lentils are tender.

Step 5: Blend if Desired

For a creamier consistency (if that’s your jam), use an immersion blender right in the pot or transfer batches into a regular blender. Just be careful not to burn yourself—it’s hot!

Step 6: Season to Taste

Taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning as needed—perhaps more salt or pepper? Serve hot with crusty bread on the side because who can resist dipping?

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Now you have a delightful bowl of lentil soup ready! It’s comforting enough for snowy days yet fresh enough for sunny afternoons—a true culinary chameleon that fits any occasion perfectly. Enjoy every spoonful!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant; then toss in your lentils and broth. Allow them to simmer while you chop carrots and celery. This sequence ensures everything melds beautifully, resulting in a hearty lentil soup bursting with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap red lentils for green ones or add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for an extra kick. Toss in some spinach or kale near the end for added nutrition, creating your signature version of lentil soup!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

I remember the first time I made lentil soup for my family—they were skeptical at first. But after one spoonful, they declared it “the best thing ever.” Now it’s our go-to comfort food!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for lentil soup?

To make a delicious lentil soup, you will need essential ingredients like lentils, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and your choice of spices. You can also add leafy greens such as spinach or kale for extra nutrition. Don’t forget to include salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Feel free to customize with herbs like thyme or bay leaves for an aromatic touch.

How long does it take to cook lentil soup?

Cooking lentil soup typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish. After sautéing your vegetables and adding the lentils and broth, allow the mixture to simmer until the lentils are tender. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of lentils used. Green and brown lentils generally take longer than red ones.

Can I freeze leftover lentil soup?

Yes, you can freeze leftover lentil soup! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Is lentil soup healthy?

Absolutely! Lentil soup is packed with nutrients and offers numerous health benefits. Lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber while being low in calories. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals like iron and folate. Including this hearty soup in your diet can contribute to better digestion, heart health, and weight management.

Looking to expand your recipe collection? Check out these tasty recipes for your next culinary adventure.

Conclusion for lentil soup:

In summary, making a flavorful lentil soup is straightforward and rewarding. With just a few key ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and spices, you can create a nutritious meal that warms the heart. Cooking time is minimal, allowing you to enjoy this dish on busy days or meal prep for later. Plus, it’s easy to freeze for future enjoyment. Embrace this healthy option as part of your weekly menu!

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Cozy Lentil Soup

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Warm up with this hearty lentil soup, filled with vibrant veggies and spices—perfect for any occasion!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Key Ingredients
• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes in juice
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Instructions
2. 1. Sauté the Aromatics
3. In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about five minutes until softened.
4. 2. Add Garlic and Spices
5. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and thyme. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
6. 3. Combine Lentils and Tomatoes
7. Add rinsed lentils and canned tomatoes (with juice) to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
8. 4. Pour in Broth
9. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about twenty-five minutes or until lentils are tender.
10. 5. Blend if Desired
11. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer portions to a regular blender.
12. 6. Season to Taste
13. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread on the side.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg