Lentil soup is a hearty and wholesome dish that warms the soul and nourishes the body. This easy-to-make recipe features nutritious lentils combined with vibrant vegetables and savory spices, making it a delightful choice for any meal. Pairing it with crusty bread enhances the experience and turns this simple soup into a complete meal that’s both satisfying and fulfilling.
Why You’ll Love This Hearty & Wholesome Lentil Soup
This lentil soup is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, it’s a nourishing option for everyone, including vegetarians and vegans. The combination of spices adds depth, while the fresh ingredients make each bowl flavorful and aromatic. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish that requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. You’ll fall in love with how easy it is to prepare and the comforting warmth it brings to your dining table.
How to Make Hearty & Wholesome Lentil Soup
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious pot of lentil soup you will cherish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped (about 150g)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced (about 120g)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (about 100g)
- 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1½ cups dried brown or green lentils (about 285g)
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups (1.5L) vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Crusty bread of choice (sourdough, artisan loaf, or garlic butter rolls)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the diced carrots and celery into the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, and dried thyme until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Combine Main Ingredients: Pour in the dried lentils, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat.
- Simmer: Let the soup simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes until the lentils are tender.
- Season the Soup: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. For a creamier texture, consider partially blending the soup if desired.
- Toast Bread: While the soup cools, toast your chosen bread until golden and serve warm alongside the soup.
How to Serve Hearty & Wholesome Lentil Soup
Serve your lentil soup hot with slices of crusty bread on the side. A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add an appealing touch. Enjoy this fulfilling dish for lunch or dinner, and feel free to pair it with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast.
How to Store Hearty & Wholesome Lentil Soup
Leftover lentil soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Tips to Make Hearty & Wholesome Lentil Soup Perfect
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables elevate the flavor of your soup. Opt for organic or locally sourced produce whenever possible.
- Rinse Lentils: Before adding lentils to the pot, rinse them under cold water to remove any debris or dirt.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a delightful kick.
- Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding more vegetables such as spinach, kale, or bell peppers during the cooking process.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to customize your lentil soup based on your preferences. Try adding:
- Greens: Incorporate fresh spinach or kale for added nutrition.
- Protein: Stir in cooked turkey bacon or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
- Heat: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy variation.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro to brighten the flavors.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the lentils while cooking. Overcooking might make them mushy and affect the texture.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving to adjust the seasoning.
- Consider a Blender: For a creamier soup, blend a portion using an immersion blender or a regular blender carefully.
FAQs About Hearty & Wholesome Lentil Soup
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. If you do, reduce the cooking time and add them towards the end to heat through.
What do I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply stir in more vegetable broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely! If you want to add meat, turkey bacon or shredded chicken can be excellent choices. Cook the meat before adding the other ingredients to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Final Thoughts
Making hearty and wholesome lentil soup at home is straightforward and rewarding. This nourishing recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it perfect for any meal. Plus, pairing it with your favorite crusty bread completes the experience. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy the comfort of homemade soup that warms both the body and the heart. Don’t forget to share your delicious results with family and friends!
Lentil Soup
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing
- 1 medium onion, chopped About 150g
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For flavor
- 2 medium carrots, diced About 120g
- 2 stalks celery, diced About 100g
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin For seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika For seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme For an aromatic touch
- 1.5 cups dried brown or green lentils About 285g
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 400g
- 6 cups vegetable broth For the soup base
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice To brighten the flavors
Serving Option
- 1 loaf Crusty bread of choice Sourdough, artisan loaf, or garlic butter rolls
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced carrots and celery into the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, and dried thyme until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Cooking
- Pour in the dried lentils, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes until the lentils are tender.
- Season the soup with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Optionally, partially blend the soup for a creamier texture.
- While the soup cools, toast your chosen bread until golden and serve warm alongside the soup.