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Lentil soup

lentil soup

Lentil soup brings warmth and flavor with every spoonful. Discover a light, healthy recipe that’s easy to cook and truly satisfying.
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Total Time 46 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 215
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup brown lentils rinsed
  • 1 unit carrot diced
  • 1 unit onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 unit bay leaf
  • 2 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for serving

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
  2. Add minced garlic and chopped carrots. Stir for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the carrots begin to soften.
  3. Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring to bloom the spices.
  4. Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
  6. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the lemon juice, taste, and adjust the salt if necessary.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

Lentil soup is an incredibly versatile classic enjoyed around the world for its comforting flavors and wholesome nutrition. Its popularity is no surprise—few dishes can be adapted to suit so many tastes and diets, making it a true staple during colder months or any time you crave a nourishing meal.

Smart Tips to Perfect Your Lentil Soup

Don’t skip rinsing your lentils: This step removes excess starch and ensures the broth remains clean and flavorful. For a richer taste, sauté your onions, garlic, and carrots until they are golden and fragrant—this caramelization can deepen the soup’s flavor.
If you enjoy a thicker texture, mash a portion of the cooked lentils with a spoon or blend a small batch before stirring it back into the pot. This gives the soup a lovely body without needing cream.

Ingredient Swaps & Customization

Short on brown lentils? Substitute with green or black lentils—just avoid red lentils, as they break down more quickly and will yield a mushier consistency.
Feel free to swap carrots for sweet potatoes, add chopped celery, or stir in leafy greens like spinach or kale near the end of cooking. These small changes can make the soup your own while boosting its nutritional profile.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve your lentil soup with a slice of rustic sourdough bread or a crisp baguette to soak up the flavorful broth. For extra zing, top each bowl with a wedge of lemon or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving. If you want a fuller meal, try pairing the soup with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
For a Mediterranean touch, sprinkle with feta cheese and a few olives. The soup stores very well—it often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors develop further overnight. Remember to reheat gently, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the texture.