Classic Lentil Soup (30-35 Minutes)

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Packed with wholesome ingredients and aromatic spices, this hearty soup is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The star of the dish is the humble lentil, known for its high nutritional value and earthy flavor. Combined with a medley of vegetables and fragrant herbs, this soup offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Let’s begin!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
  2. Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable or chicken broth, bay leaf, ground cumin, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  3. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  4. Remove the bay leaf from the soup and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing squeeze of citrus.

Notes

Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables like diced potatoes, diced tomatoes, or leafy greens such as spinach or kale. For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some lemon juice into the soup just before serving. This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty bread or a side of cooked rice. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer preservation. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

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