Delicious Lentil Soup Recipe – Comfort in a Bowl

Catch a whiff of warm spices mingling with hearty lentils and vegetables—welcome to the comforting world of lentil soup. This dish is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, promising coziness on the chilliest of nights. Imagine spooning into a velvety concoction that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show.

The first time I made this soup was during an epic snowstorm that left my house looking like a snow globe. Friends gathered around my kitchen table, their faces lighting up as they took their first bite. Little did I know that this humble recipe would become a cherished family favorite—the perfect meal for those cozy nights in when you want something delicious yet nutritious.

I remember one chilly evening when I served this lentil soup at a family gathering—everyone kept asking for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Green or Brown Lentils: Choose dried lentils; they hold their shape beautifully when cooked and are full of fiber.
• Carrots: Opt for fresh carrots; they add natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
• Celery: Fresh celery enhances the aromatic base of the soup while adding crunch.
• Onion: A medium onion works perfectly; it becomes sweet and tender as it cooks down.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic kick; use more if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add depth and richness; choose fire-roasted for extra flavor.
• Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness; homemade is best if you have it.
• Bay Leaves: These add subtle herbal notes; remember to remove them before serving!
• Cumin and Paprika: These spices elevate the flavor profile; smoked paprika adds an irresistible smokiness.
• Spinach or Kale (optional): Adding greens boosts nutrition; toss them in toward the end to keep them vibrant.

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

Let’s Make it Together

**Prep Your Veggies**: Start by chopping your onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces. They should be roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

**Sauté Aromatics**: In a large pot over medium heat, pour in some olive oil and add your onions. Cook until translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes—before adding garlic.

**Add Vegetables**: Toss in your carrots and celery, stirring occasionally until they soften slightly. The aroma will remind you of home-cooked comfort.

**Introduce Lentils & Spices**: Add rinsed lentils along with diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, bay leaves, and vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat.

**Simmer Until Tender**: Let it simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

**Finish with Greens (Optional)**: If you’re adding spinach or kale, stir it in during the last few minutes cooking time just until wilted. Serve hot and enjoy!

Now you’re ready to dive into that glorious bowl of love we call lentil soup!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best lentil soup, sauté your onions and garlic first, then add spices before the lentils. This method enhances flavor and ensures a robust taste.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different vegetables or use vegetable broth for a richer flavor. Experimenting with spices like cumin or thyme can also elevate your soup.

Storing & Reheating

Store lentil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until piping hot, stirring occasionally.

Cooking lentil soup reminds me of chilly evenings spent with friends, sharing stories over warm bowls of comfort food. Their smiles after tasting my secret recipe were truly priceless!

FAQ

Can I use canned lentils for this lentil soup?

Yes, canned lentils can be used but will require less cooking time.

What type of lentils should I use for soup?

Brown or green lentils are ideal as they hold their shape well during cooking.

How can I thicken my lentil soup?

For a thicker consistency, blend some of the cooked soup and stir it back in.

Print

Delicious Lentil Soup Recipe – Comfort in a Bowl

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Warm up with this flavorful lentil soup, featuring hearty lentils and vibrant vegetables. It’s the perfect cozy dish for chilly nights or anytime you crave comfort food.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cups spinach or kale (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into small, uniform pieces.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the onions until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic.
3. Add carrots and celery; cook until softened.
4. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, spices, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil before reducing heat.
5. Simmer for 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender but intact. Stir occasionally.
6. If using greens, add them during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted. Serve hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 14g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg