great lentil soup recipe

The Best great lentil soup recipe

I’ve been making great lentil soup for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My kids love it because it’s easy to eat and packed with nutrients. As a busy mom, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is – we can have it as a quick weeknight meal or serve it at family gatherings.

The best part is that lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarian and vegan diets. I’ve tried many lentil soup recipes over the years, but this one remains my go-to. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for any occasion.

The origin of lentil soup dates back to ancient times, with evidence of its existence found in ancient Greek and Roman cuisines. Today, you can find variations of this hearty soup all over the world, each with its own unique twist. The beauty of lentil soup lies in its simplicity – it’s a perfect canvas for adding your favorite spices and ingredients.

The texture of cooked lentils is what makes this soup truly special. When cooked correctly, they retain a slight firmness that’s both comforting and satisfying. I like to use green or brown lentils for their slightly firmer texture and earthier flavor.

One key technique to achieving the perfect lentil soup is to cook the lentils until they’re tender but still hold their shape. This ensures that they’ll break apart easily when you’re serving the soup. As I said, my family loves this recipe because it’s easy to eat and packed with nutrients.

We often serve it with a side of crusty bread or over rice for added sustenance.

Great Lentil Soup

4.8 from 883 votes

A hearty and comforting lentil soup perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with vegetables and spices, this soup is both delicious and nutritious.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 bay leaf
2 cups spinach, chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add onion, carrots, and celery.
3Cook until vegetables are softened and onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4Add garlic, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt to the pot.
5Stir well and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), and bay leaf.
7Stir to combine.
8Bring the soup to a boil then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
9Once lentils are tender, stir in spinach.
10Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until spinach is wilted.
11Remove the bay leaf.
12Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
13Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
14Enjoy with a side of crusty bread if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 20g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.

This great lentil soup recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It is easy to make, versatile, and packed with nutrients.

It works well for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. The soup can be made in large batches and stored in the freezer for later use.

Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and easy meal. It is a dish that everyone will enjoy, and it’s something that you can feel good about serving to your family and friends.

It’s a simple, delicious, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s a dish that brings people together.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Great Lentil Soup

Q: What type of lentils should I use?

Green or brown lentils work best in this recipe due to their slightly firmer texture and earthier flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker! Simply sauté the onions and garlic, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze this recipe! Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Q: What are some variations I can try?

You can add your favorite spices or ingredients to make this recipe your own. Some ideas include adding diced tomatoes for extra flavor or using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.

Q: How long does this recipe take to make?

This recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes to make, depending on how quickly you can chop the vegetables!

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