Hearty Lentil Soup Recipe. Simple and Delicious One-Pot Meal
Lentil soup is a comforting, hearty dish that's perfect for a cozy meal at home. This recipe brings together the earthy flavor of lentils with aromatic vegetables and spices, creating a nutritious and filling soup. It’s an easy one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and healthy, making it ideal for anyone looking to cook their own food with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the family, this lentil soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Heat the Olive Oil. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the Vegetables. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add Garlic and Spices. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Lentils and Broth. Pour in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
Simmer the Soup. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Season and Serve. Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice if desired. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Recipe tips
For a deeper flavor, try adding a teaspoon of tomato paste along with the garlic and spices. Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and then mix it back into the pot.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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