Description
Vegetarian Lentil Soup is a cozy, nourishing, and flavorful plant-based meal packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant spices. This hearty soup combines lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings to create a comforting dish perfect for chilly days and those seeking a wholesome, budget-friendly option. Easily adaptable with various spices and vegetables, it’s a delicious way to warm your soul and fuel your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Lentils
- 1 cup dried lentils (green, brown, or red)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
Garlic and Spices
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 bay leaves
Tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or 2 fresh tomatoes, diced
Liquids
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh Herbs
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Dice onions, carrots, and celery finely to create a uniform base. Rinse lentils under cool water until the water runs clear to remove impurities.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaves, stirring to toast spices lightly. Pour in diced tomatoes and cook for a few minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Combine Lentils and Broth: Add rinsed lentils to the pot and pour in vegetable broth. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer.
- Simmer Until Tender: Let the soup simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally, checking seasoning and adjusting salt or pepper as needed.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove bay leaves, stir in chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve warm for maximum flavor and freshness.
Notes
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Clean lentils cook better and avoid any gritty texture in your soup.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on lentils to maintain their shape and prevent the soup from becoming too thick.
- Layer Your Flavors: Toast spices in oil before adding liquids to release essential oils and boost aroma.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more broth or water if you prefer a thinner soup or simmer longer for a heartier stew-like texture.
- Use Fresh Herbs Last: Stir them in right before serving to keep their brightness and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 12 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg