Description
Classic Lentil Soup is a comforting, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish perfect for a wholesome meal. This recipe combines hearty lentils with aromatic vegetables and subtle spices, simmered to perfection in vegetable broth for a warm, satisfying soup that nourishes the body and soul.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Rinse the Lentils: Thoroughly rinse 1 cup of lentils under cold running water to remove dirt and impurities. Set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing it to release its aroma without burning.
- Add Lentils and Broth: Add the rinsed lentils, 6 cups of vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon each of cumin and thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
- Check and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed for your preferred flavor.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately while warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Rinsing lentils ensures a cleaner broth and better texture.
- You can use red or green lentils; each will slightly alter the texture and cooking time.
- Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
- This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
