Lentil soup

lentil_soup

Lentil soup is a popular dish for vegetarians, and for good reason. Lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and iron, making them an ideal ingredient for any plant-based diet. Lentils are also incredibly versatile, able to take on the flavors of a variety of spices and vegetables. Personally, I love making a hearty, delicious vegetarian lentil soup that is perfect for cold winter nights or any time you need a comforting, nourishing meal.

This vegetarian lentil soup recipe is easy to make and only requires a few common ingredients. The base of the soup is made with onions, garlic, celery, and carrots, all of which are sautéed in olive oil until tender. I also like to add in some diced tomatoes for a bit of acidity and sweetness, as well as a handful of chopped kale or spinach for some added nutrients.

For the lentils, I like to use green or brown lentils, which hold their shape well and have a nutty, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients in the soup. I cook the lentils in vegetable broth until they are tender, then stir them into the sautéed vegetables.

To give the soup some depth of flavor, I add in a few spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder, as well as some dried herbs like thyme and oregano. Finally, I finish the soup off with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some chopped fresh parsley for a bit of brightness and freshness.

One of the things I love about lentil soup is that it is incredibly filling and satisfying, thanks to the lentils and vegetables. It’s also a great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand, making it a perfect meal for those times when you need to clean out your fridge.

This soup is not only nutritious but is also vegan and gluten-free, making it a perfect option for anyone with dietary restrictions or preferences. It’s also easily adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different spices, vegetables, or herbs to make it your own.

Overall, this vegetarian lentil soup recipe is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, plant-based option that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a delicious way to get your protein fix or just looking for a comforting bowl of soup on a cold day, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Here’s a recipe for a hearty Vegetarian Lentil Soup:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and picked over
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion is translucent.

  2. Add the carrots, celery, and bell pepper, and sauté for another 5 minutes or until the vegetables are slightly softened.

  3. Add the lentils, cumin, paprika, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.

  4. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and diced tomatoes, and bring to a boil.

  5. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

  6. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 5 minutes.

  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

  8. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley (optional), and serve with crusty bread or crackers.

Enjoy your delicious Vegetarian Lentil Soup!