Imagine a soul-warming soup that transports you to the aromatic kitchens of the Middle East with just one spoonful. This Hearty Lentil Soup is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey packed with incredible flavors, nutritious ingredients, and the kind of comfort that makes every bite feel like a warm embrace. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste, this recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dish.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery, sautéing until vegetables become soft and onions turn translucent, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, ground cumin, and ground coriander to the vegetable mixture. Stir continuously for 30-45 seconds to release the aromatic spices and prevent burning.
- Rinse lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Add rinsed lentils to the pot and stir to combine with the spiced vegetables.
- Pour vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer the soup for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. The consistency should be thick and hearty.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread if desired.
Tips
- • Always rinse your lentils thoroughly to remove any debris and prevent a gritty texture. • Toast the spices briefly to enhance their flavor profile and release their essential oils. • Use fresh vegetables for the best taste and nutritional value. • Don't rush the simmering process - slow cooking allows the flavors to develop fully. • For extra depth, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving. • If the soup becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little extra vegetable broth. • This soup freezes beautifully, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch for future meals. • For a protein boost, consider adding diced tofu or a handful of chopped spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
