Description
Lentil soup is a nourishing and satisfying dish that’s both comforting and versatile. This recipe combines earthy lentils with a blend of aromatic spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and smoked paprika, to create a flavorful and hearty soup. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a filling meal, this soup is packed with nutrients, rich in flavor, and perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon (for finishing)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Lentils
Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any debris. Set aside. -
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
Add the Vegetables
Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
Incorporate the Spices
Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, and cinnamon (if using). Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. -
Simmer the Soup
Add the lentils, diced tomatoes (optional), vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Stir everything together and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed. -
Finish the Soup
Once the lentils are tender, discard the bay leaf. Stir in the lemon juice and taste for seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed. -
Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside a simple salad.
Notes
- Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like curry powder, garam masala, or ground ginger to change the flavor profile to your liking.
- Vegetable Options: Add greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.
- Consistency: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup.
- Broth Choice: For a richer flavor, opt for homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American