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Hearty Lentil Soup

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A cozy, budget-friendly lentil soup recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for chilly evenings and quick weeknight dinners. Packed with smoky spices and a creamy texture without cream.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (200g) brown or green lentils, rinsed thoroughly
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 6 cups (1.4 liters) low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 cup (240ml) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup (200g) of lentils under cold water until clear. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and slightly golden.
  3. Add minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir and cook for another 4-5 minutes until veggies soften but do not brown.
  4. Stir in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Toast spices for 30 seconds.
  5. Add 1 cup (240ml) crushed tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes to blend acidity with spices.
  6. Add rinsed lentils, 6 cups (1.4 liters) vegetable broth, and 1 bay leaf. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  7. Reduce heat to low, partially cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender but not mushy. Add broth or water if soup thickens too much.
  8. Optional: Remove about 2 cups (480ml) of soup and puree in a blender, then stir back into the pot for a creamy texture.
  9. Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  10. Remove bay leaf and ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Notes

Keep an eye on lentils near the end to avoid overcooking and mushiness. Toast spices briefly to enhance flavor. Partial blending creates a creamy texture without cream. Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness. For a creamier version, stir in Greek or coconut yogurt before serving. Can be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot as an alternative method.

Nutrition

Keywords: lentil soup, hearty soup, easy soup recipe, vegan soup, gluten-free soup, quick dinner, cozy meal, healthy soup

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/hearty-lentil-soup-recipe-easy-homemade-cozy-meal-under-30-minutes/