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Lentil soup

lentil soup

Lentil soup is practical, filling and full of flavor. Ideal for those who want a healthy and comforting meal!
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Total Time 46 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 290
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cup dried lentils brown or green, rinsed and drained
  • 1 unit onion chopped
  • 2 unit garlic clove minced
  • 1 unit carrot chopped
  • 1 unit celery stalk chopped
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 5 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 cup spinach fresh, optional
  • 0.5 unit lemon juice, optional for serving

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
  4. Add the dried lentils and tomato paste to the pot. Mix them with the vegetables and spices.
  5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
  6. If using, stir in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until wilted.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Notes

Lentil soup remains a classic comfort dish, celebrated globally for its versatility and nourishing profile. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a flavorful meal that's perfect for both busy weekdays and cozy weekends. Whether you're new to lentils or a longtime fan, this recipe adjusts beautifully to your taste and ingredient availability.

Tips to Elevate Your Lentil Soup

  • Dried vs. Canned Lentils: While dried lentils provide a richer texture, canned lentils can cut cooking time by half—just reduce simmering to 10 minutes and use half the broth.
  • Boosting Umami: For a deeper flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of miso paste towards the end of cooking. A Parmesan rind simmered in the soup is another chef’s secret for added richness.
  • Prevent Mushiness: Keep an eye on the lentils as they cook. Overcooking will result in mushy soup; the lentils should remain just tender.

Preparation Techniques and Ingredient Swaps

  • Building Flavor Base: Take your time when sautéing onions, carrots, and celery—this step develops the essential foundation for taste.
  • Herb Variations: Feel free to add thyme, bay leaves, or fresh parsley for extra aroma. Each herb introduces a unique note and complexity to your soup.
  • Make It Creamy: For a creamier texture, blend a cup of the finished soup and stir it back in.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

  • Serve your lentil soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.
  • It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal.
  • If you want to make a meal prep–friendly option, this soup stores and reheats wonderfully. It tastes even better the next day!
Let your lentil soup reflect your own style—experiment with spices, greens, or other seasonal veggies. Each bowl is an invitation to comfort, creativity, and connection around the table.