Let me tell you, lentil soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s hearty, nutritious, and oh-so-easy to whip up. I mean, who doesn’t love a comforting bowl of soup that fills you up and warms your soul? This is why I’m so excited to share my absolute best lentil soup recipe. It’s packed with flavor and made from simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, so it’s perfect for everyone! You can have this deliciousness simmering on your stovetop in no time, and trust me, the aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen. So, let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Prepare the Best Lentil Soup Recipe
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making the best lentil soup recipe is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious pot of soup bubbling away in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, rinse your lentils under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. This helps remove any dust or debris—nobody wants that in their soup!
- In a large pot, heat up your olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften.
- Next, add in the minced garlic and give it a good stir. Cook for just another minute until that amazing garlic aroma fills your kitchen. Wow, right?
- Now, it’s time to stir in the rinsed lentils along with the vegetable broth, cumin, thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil—just let it bubble away!
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. You want those lentils to be tender, so check them after 25 minutes. If they’re still a bit firm, give them a few more minutes.
- Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning as you like. Serve your hearty soup hot, and enjoy every spoonful!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note! The nutritional information provided is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. For the most accurate details, I always recommend checking the labels of your ingredients. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Nutritious and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Hearty flavors that warm you from the inside out.
- Flexible and customizable—add your favorite veggies or spices!
- Budget-friendly—great for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Tips for Success
To make the best lentil soup recipe, here are a few handy tips to ensure your soup turns out just perfect! First, be sure to rinse your lentils well to get rid of any grit—trust me, it makes a difference! Also, feel free to sauté the garlic for just a minute to avoid burning it; burnt garlic can be bitter. If you like a thicker soup, simply blend a portion of it with an immersion blender for a creamy texture while keeping some whole lentils for that hearty bite. And don’t forget to taste as you go; adjusting the seasoning is key to unlocking all those delicious flavors!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many ways to switch up this best lentil soup recipe! You can add a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and extra nutrition. Want a bit of a kick? Toss in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for some heat. How about a twist on flavor? Try adding a splash of lemon juice or some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving to brighten things up. You can even experiment with different spices like curry powder for an entirely new vibe. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious lentil soup is a breeze! Just let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully! Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion, and it’ll last for about 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, pour it into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just make sure to cover it to prevent splatters. Enjoy your cozy bowl of soup!
Serving Suggestions
This hearty lentil soup is perfect on its own, but if you want to elevate your meal, consider pairing it with some crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping. A fresh side salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and brightness to the meal. You could also serve it alongside some roasted vegetables for that extra nutrition and flavor. And let’s not forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top or a dollop of yogurt for a creamy finish. Trust me, these simple additions will take your soup experience to the next level!
Best Lentil Soup Recipe: 5 Tips for Cozy Comfort
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A hearty and nutritious lentil soup that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils under cold water.
- In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in lentils, broth, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Check lentils for tenderness and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- This soup freezes well.
- Add spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: best lentil soup recipe