Hearty Lentil Soup
Introduction
Hearty Lentil Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s packed with flavors and nutrients, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. Let’s dive into this simple, delicious recipe!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also budget-friendly and healthy. Lentils are full of protein and fiber, which makes this soup filling and nutritious. Plus, you can enjoy it on a chilly day or whenever you need a quick meal.
How to Make Hearty Lentil Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender, about 25-30 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.
How to Serve Hearty Lentil Soup
Serve this soup warm in bowls. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad on the side.
How to Store Hearty Lentil Soup
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Hearty Lentil Soup
- Rinse the lentils well before adding them to the pot to remove any dirt.
- Feel free to add other veggies, such as spinach or bell peppers, for extra color and nutrients.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste.
Variation
You can swap vegetable broth for chicken broth if you prefer a different flavor. Adding a splash of lemon juice at the end gives a nice brightness to the soup!
FAQs
1. Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just add them at the end of cooking to heat through.
2. Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this Hearty Lentil Soup is vegan as it contains vegetable broth and no animal products.
3. How do I thicken the soup?
If you want a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it using an immersion blender or a regular blender after cooking.