Lentil Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lentil Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s both nutritious and flavorful. Packed with protein-rich lentils, aromatic vegetables, and warming spices, this soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a wholesome, filling meal. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and naturally vegan, making it a go-to option for both everyday dinners and meal prep.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

green or brown lentilsolive oilonioncarrotscelerygarlictomatoes (fresh or canned)vegetable brothbay leavesground cuminpaprikathymesalt and pepperlemon juice (optional for brightness)fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Rinse the lentils thoroughly and set aside.

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic, cumin, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the lentils, tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Toss in the bay leaves.

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Remove the bay leaves. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup (optional).

Stir in lemon juice for a hint of brightness if desired.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 35 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.

Use red lentils for a quicker-cooking, creamier version.

Add spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking for added greens.

Spice it up with red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Top with a dollop of yogurt or a swirl of olive oil for extra richness.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Lentil Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.It freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to adjust consistency.

FAQs

What kind of lentils are best for soup?

Green or brown lentils hold their shape well and are ideal for this soup. Red lentils work too but cook faster and break down more.

Do I need to soak the lentils?

No soaking is necessary, but rinsing them before cooking is recommended.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I add meat?

Absolutely. Add diced cooked sausage, chicken, or bacon for a meaty version.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your broth is certified gluten-free.

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time since canned lentils are already cooked.

What can I serve with Lentil Soup?

Crusty bread, a green salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich pair wonderfully.

Can I make it spicy?

Add chili flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.

How do I thicken the soup?

Blend part of the soup or let it simmer longer uncovered.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely, this soup scales well for batch cooking.

Conclusion

Lentil Soup is a wholesome and versatile dish that fits any mealtime need—whether you’re craving something cozy, prepping meals for the week, or feeding a crowd. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, it’s a timeless classic that you’ll want to make again and again.

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