The Ultimate Cozy Lentil Soup (Hearty & Flavorful!)
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bowl of something utterly comforting? honestly, is there anything better than a best lentil soup recipe on a chilly evening? this one is packed with flavour.
It has warm spices and a zesty lemon kick.
Brief Overview
Lentil soup is a classic, proper peasant food. it's a staple from the mediterranean. this recipe is super easy. it will take about an hour.
This recipe makes 6 servings. perfect for a family dinner.
Main Benefits
Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse. this easy healthy lentil soup is packed with fibre and protein. it's filling. it's good for you.
It is also great for meal prepping. make a batch on sunday. have lunch ready for the week. what makes this homemade lentil soup from scratch special is the depth of flavour.
The herbs and spices make it so good.
Ready to dive in? You'll be amazed at how simple this is. First, let's gather our ingredients. This hearty lentil soup needs just a few basics.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show on the Road!
So, you wanna whip up the best lentil soup recipe ? ace! first, let's gather our bits and bobs. i'm going to share the secret to easy healthy lentil soup that’ll knock your socks off.
Honestly, it's easier than finding a decent parking spot on a saturday.
What You'll Need: The Star Performers
Here is what you need for this hearty lentil soup . No crazy ingredients, just the usual suspects!
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml). Quality olive oil really shines here. Use the good stuff, mate!
- Onion: 1 large , chopped. About 1 ½ cups.
- Carrots: 2 , peeled and chopped. Aim for about 1 cup.
- Celery: 2 stalks , chopped. Again, roughly 1 cup.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. The more the merrier, I say!
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon . Gives it that classic Mediterranean Lentil Soup Recipe vibe.
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon .
- Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon . Trust me on this, it's a game changer.
- Ground cumin: ½ teaspoon .
- Red pepper flakes: A pinch. Optional, but adds a nice kick.
- Lentils: 1 cup (200g) of brown or green, rinsed. I told you that this can be the Best Lentil Soup for Weight Loss .
- Vegetable broth: 6 cups (1.4 liters). Or chicken broth if you're feeling naughty.
- Diced tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can (400g), undrained.
- Bay leaf: 1 . Don't forget to remove it later!
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons .
- Fresh parsley: For garnish. Because we're fancy like that.
Seasoning Secrets: The Flavour Fireworks
Don't be shy with the spices. it’s what makes this homemade lentil soup from scratch sing. i love thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika together.
It's like a little holiday in your mouth. if you don't have smoked paprika, regular paprika works in a pinch, though you'll miss that smokey depth.
Lemon juice is key for brightening up the flavors, and fresh parsley adds a lovely fresh aroma. this simple tweak is ideal if you like lentil soup with lemon .
Tools of the Trade: Kit Up!
You don’t need fancy gadgets. this lentil soup recipes only needs a few key items. a large pot or dutch oven is essential.
This can be vegan soup ideas or a gluten-free lentil soup , by the way. a cutting board and a decent chef's knife are a must.
You know, the one you feel all gordon ramsay with. and finally, measuring cups and spoons. no rocket science, promise! if you don’t have a dutch oven, any large, heavy bottomed pot will do the trick.
Now you’re ready to create the best lentil soup you've ever tasted. Let's go!
The Ultimate Cozy Lentil Soup (Hearty & Flavorful!)
Fancy a bowl of something that warms you right down to your toes? this isn't your average, run-of-the-mill lentil soup.
This recipe elevates the humble lentil to a bowl of hearty goodness. with mediterranean influences, it's packed full of veg, aromatic spices and a zesty lemon kick.
This easy healthy lentil soup is perfect for a chilly evening. Or a satisfying lunch. Honestly, it's better than a cuppa after a long day! This recipe's so easy that even your nan can handle it!
Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission
- Essential mise en place
- Time saving organization tips
- Safety reminders (if applicable)
Alright, let's get organized! chop up 1 large onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks. mince 2 cloves of garlic.
Rinse 1 cup of brown or green lentils under cold water until it runs clear. this stops the soup going all starchy, you know? it's like giving them a little spa day.
Now you're ready to roll!
step-by-step: From Prep to Plate
This is how we make the best lentil soup recipe , follow these steps!
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5- 7 minutes . Toss in your minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of ground cumin, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you're feeling brave). Cook for another minute until you can smell all those lovely aromas.
- Add the Lentils: Stir in the rinsed lentils, 6 cups of vegetable broth, 1 can of diced tomatoes (undrained), and 1 bay leaf. Bring the mix to a boil.
- Simmer Down: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30- 40 minutes , or until the lentils are tender.
- Season and Finish: Remove the bay leaf (we don't need that anymore). Stir in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt and pepper are your friends.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the hearty lentil soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. A bit of crusty bread on the side never hurt anyone!
Pro Tips: Secrets from the Kitchen
Here's a couple of tricks that'll make this lentil soup recipe even better.
- Don't skip sautéing. It brings out the sweetness of the veg.
- Want lentil soup with lemon ? Add more lemon juice for extra zing.
Recipe Notes for the Ultimate Cozy Lentil Soup
So, you're about to whip up the best lentil soup recipe ever? ace! here are a few extra bits and bobs to make sure it goes swimmingly.
This easy healthy lentil soup is pretty foolproof. i promise! honestly, you'll be making it on repeat. trust me, i've been there.
Serving Up Goodness: Plating and Sidekicks
Presentation matters, innit? a swirl of cream or a dollop of yogurt on top looks fancy. sprinkle some extra fresh parsley.
Boom! serve this hearty lentil soup with a chunk of crusty bread. perfect for dunking. a side salad with a light vinaigrette is proper lush too.
Don't forget you can never go wrong with grilled cheese sandwich on the side. think of it!
Storing Your Soup: Keep it Fresh!
Leftovers? you're in for a treat! this homemade lentil soup from scratch tastes even better the next day. store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It will last for about 3-4 days. fancy batch cooking? freeze it! portion it out into containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the hob or in the microwave. sorted!
Remixing the Recipe: Make it Your Own
Got dietary needs? no worries! this gluten-free lentil soup is naturally gluten-free. just double check your broth. for a vegan soup ideas , just make sure you're using vegetable broth and leave out any non-vegan garnishes.
Easy peasy! want to spice things up? add a pinch more red pepper flakes. it really gives it a kick.
I once accidentally added chilli instead of paprika. let me tell you, it was a proper wake-up call.
Nutrition Lowdown: Goodness in a Bowl
This simple lentil soup ingredients are packed with goodness. we're talking about roughly 250 calories per serving. you'll get about 18g of protein, 7g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and a whopping 12g of fibre.
The fibre is a winner for keeping you full. some even say it's the best lentil soup for weight loss ! but seriously, this soup is good for your heart and your soul.
Plus, you're getting all those lovely vitamins from the veggies!
And there you have it! enjoy your mediterranean lentil soup recipe ! give it a go, and don't be afraid to experiment.
Cooking should be fun, not stressful. now go on, get your apron on and make some magic happen. you've got this! oh, and don't forget the splash of lentil soup with lemon to brighten things up!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of lentils are best for lentil soup, and can I use red lentils?
For the best lentil soup recipe that holds its shape, brown or green lentils are your best bet. Red lentils will cook down much more, creating a creamier, almost porridge like consistency. So, if you're after a chunky soup, stick to brown or green!
Can I freeze lentil soup? What's the best way to store leftovers?
Absolutely! Lentil soup freezes brilliantly. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer safe containers or bags. It'll keep for up to 3 months. Leftovers will happily sit in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container they often taste even better the next day, like a good stew!
How can I make this the best lentil soup recipe even more flavourful?
Don't skimp on the aromatics! Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery properly is key. Also, using a good quality broth makes a massive difference; homemade is ideal, but a good store-bought one works wonders. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens everything up, too it's the chef's kiss!
Is this lentil soup recipe healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
You bet your bottom dollar it is! Lentil soup is packed with fibre, protein, and essential nutrients. It's a great source of plant based protein, which is fantastic if you're trying to eat less meat, and all that fibre will keep you feeling full and satisfied, rather like a good Sunday roast!
I'm vegetarian/vegan. Can I still make this lentil soup recipe?
Totally! This recipe is easily adaptable for vegetarians and vegans. Just make sure you're using vegetable broth and that any garnishes (like cheese or yogurt) are plant based. It's a naturally hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for a Meat Free Monday!
What can I serve with this best lentil soup recipe to make it a complete meal?
A hunk of crusty bread for dipping is a must have. A side salad with a zingy vinaigrette adds a nice contrast. Or, for ultimate comfort, a grilled cheese sandwich goes down a treat it's the perfect cosy combination, just like bangers and mash!
The Ultimate Cozy Lentil Soup Hearty Flavorful
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 250 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 12g |
