From homes in Asia to those in Africa, everyone is familiar with lentil soup. Perhaps it is the ease of preparation or the sheer variety of flavors people can experiment, but this dish continues to be the most popular choice wherever you go. If a hot bowl of soup served on a cold evening or a quick meal is what you seek, lentil soup is the solution.
Pairing lentils with different vegetables, herbs, and spices makes lentil soup versatile. There are innumerable variations of lentil soup, such as classic, spicy, or even red lentil soup. In this post, we will discuss one of the most sought out lentil soup recipes and showcase the myriad variations you must try!
If you are eager to explore the countless types of lentils that go well with soup, check out our guide. Just like with any other type of recipe, there are numerous variations to try and recipes can be found on BBC good food.
Why Lentil Soup Is So Popular
Lentil soup is universally loved for its simplicity and flavor. What makes it stand out among other soups is how adaptable it is, fitting into almost any dietary need. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or a meat lover, you can easily tweak a lentil soup recipe to suit your preferences. It’s also a budget-friendly option that can feed a crowd or be prepared in smaller batches for meal prepping.
The heartiness of lentils and their ability to soak up flavors from the ingredients around them make them a favorite in soups. Add to that the rich and savory base of broth and a blend of spices, and you have a dish that’s satisfying, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.
Lentils are also a great choice because they cook relatively quickly compared to other dried beans and legumes, so you can have a delicious bowl of soup ready in no time.
How to Make the Best Lentil Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Basic Ingredients for Lentil Soup
The beauty of making lentil soup is that you can keep it simple or get creative with the ingredients. Here are the basic items you’ll need:
- Lentils: You can use red, green, or brown lentils. Red lentils break down into a creamy texture, while green and brown lentils hold their shape better for a chunkier soup.
- Vegetables: Common vegetables include onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. These add sweetness and depth of flavor to your soup.
- Broth: Choose a vegetable, chicken, or beef broth as the base for your soup.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves are perfect for enhancing the flavor. Spices like cumin, paprika, or turmeric can give your soup a unique twist.
- Olive oil or butter: For sautéing the vegetables and building a flavor base.
The Cooking Process:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Lentils and Broth: Pour in the lentils, followed by your choice of broth. Stir to combine, ensuring the lentils are well-coated with the flavorful base.
- Season the Soup: Add herbs like thyme or bay leaves and spices like cumin or paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes. The lentils should be tender but still hold their shape (for green and brown lentils).
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water. For a thinner soup, simply add extra liquid until you achieve your desired texture.
For additional tips on different lentil types and how they affect the soup’s texture, be sure to check out this comprehensive guide.
Top Variations of Lentil Soup
While the basic recipe is delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize your lentil soup depending on your mood and taste preferences. Here are a few popular variations:
- Classic Lentil Soup: This version is made with basic ingredients like green lentils, vegetables, and a savory broth. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for those who love comfort food.
- Spicy Lentil Soup: If you’re a fan of bold flavors, try adding Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric to create a rich and spicy lentil soup. You can also add chili peppers for an extra kick.
- Red Lentil Soup: Red lentils cook quickly and break down into a smooth, creamy texture, making them ideal for creating a thick, comforting soup. This version often includes tomatoes or lemon for a tangy twist.
- Vegan Lentil Soup: For those following a plant-based diet, skip the meat and use vegetable broth as the base. You can load up on vegetables and seasonings to make a satisfying vegan lentil soup.
- Lentil Soup with Sausage: Adding sausage to your lentil soup brings a hearty, meaty flavor to the dish. You can use any sausage, but spicy sausage pairs especially well with lentils.
Feel free to get creative by adding other ingredients like spinach, kale, or potatoes to make your soup even more satisfying.
Tips for Making the Best Lentil Soup
To elevate your lentil soup and make sure it’s the best it can be, follow these tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality broth can really make a difference in the overall flavor of your soup. Opt for a good-quality vegetable or chicken broth and fresh garlic and herbs whenever possible.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices and herbs to make the soup truly your own. Cumin, coriander, and paprika are common in spicy lentil soups, while thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves work well in classic variations.
- Avoid Overcooking the Lentils: While lentils are forgiving, overcooking them can lead to mushy soup. For green lentils, aim for a firm texture. For red lentils, a creamy consistency is what you’re after.
- Balance the Flavors: If the soup is too acidy, add a small amount of sugar or carrots to balance it out. If it’s too rich, a splash of lemon juice can provide a refreshing contrast.
- Garnish to Perfection: Fresh cilantro, parsley, or a dollop of yogurt can be added at the end to brighten the soup and add extra layers of flavor.
How to Serve Lentil Soup
The perfect way to serve your lentil soup depends on what you’re in the mood for:
- With Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is the perfect companion to a hearty bowl of lentil soup. You can even toast it for added crunch.
- With a Side Salad: For a lighter touch, pair your soup with a fresh green salad. The crunch of the greens will contrast beautifully with the creamy texture of the lentils.
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley adds color and a burst of freshness to each bite.
Storing and Freezing Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is great for meal prepping and leftovers. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigeration: Let the soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to keep your soup for a longer time, freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals forming.
- Reheating: Simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra liquid if needed to get the consistency back to where it was when you first made it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lentil Soup
What Are the Best Lentils for Soup?
The best lentils for soup depend on your preference for texture:
- Red lentils: These cook quickly and turn creamy, perfect for a smooth soup.
- Green lentils: These hold their shape and are great for a chunkier, heartier soup.
- Brown lentils: Another excellent choice for hearty soups, as they also hold their shape well.
How Long Does Lentil Soup Take to Cook?
Cooking times depend on the type of lentils:
- Red lentils: 20-25 minutes
- Green lentils: 30-40 minutes
- Brown lentils: 30-40 minutes
Using a pressure cooker or slow cooker can cut down the cooking time significantly.
Can You Freeze Lentil Soup?
Yes, lentil soup freezes well! Cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, defrost in the fridge overnight or heat directly from frozen, adding extra broth if needed.
Can I Make Lentil Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Lentil soup often tastes better after sitting for a day or two. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, and it will only get better as the flavors continue to meld together.
Lentil soup is a delicious, versatile dish that can be made in countless variations. Whether you like it spicy, creamy, or loaded with vegetables, lentil soup has something to offer everyone. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can make the best lentil soup that’s perfect for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves and start cooking—this cozy meal is just a pot away!
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Best Lentil Soup Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Best Lentil Soup recipe is the perfect comforting dish for any occasion. Packed with hearty lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch, this lentil soup will warm you from the inside out. It’s easily customizable with various lentil varieties and seasonings, making it ideal for all taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Optional: 1 cup spinach or kale, chopp
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the garlic, cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Lentils and Broth: Pour in the green lentils and vegetable broth, followed by the bay leaf and thyme. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Season: Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add the lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
- Optional Add-ins: If desired, stir in some spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to swap out the green lentils with red lentils for a creamier texture or with brown lentils for a heartier bite.
- For a spicier version, add a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This soup freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with additional broth as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetopn
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Easter
Keywords: best lentil soup, hearty lentil soup, easy lentil soup recipe, vegan lentil soup, comforting soup, lentil soup with vegetables, Mediterranean lentil soup, homemade lentil soup, simple lentil soup