This warm and hearty lentil soup is a perfect choice for chilly days. Packed with nutritious lentils, fresh veggies, and tasty spices, it’s comforting and filling!
I love how easy it is to make! Just toss everything in a pot, let it simmer, and you have a delicious meal. Plus, it’s great for leftovers—if there’s any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lentils: Brown and green lentils are both great in this recipe. They hold their shape well. If you only have red lentils, they will work, but they’ll cook faster and turn mushy, creating a different texture.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor, but you could substitute with vegetable or canola oil if needed. For a more intense taste, try using coconut oil.
Vegetables: The combination of onion, carrots, and celery creates a flavorful base—often called a mirepoix. Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or potatoes if you have them on hand!
Broth: Vegetable broth gives a nice depth. If you’re low on broth, water works fine, or you can use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option. Just adjust your seasoning to taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Lentils Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking lentils just right can make a big difference in your soup’s texture! Here’s how to ensure they’re cooked perfectly:
- Start by rinsing and draining the lentils to remove any debris.
- After adding them to the pot, boiling them at first helps extract their flavor. Just make sure to reduce the heat to low afterward.
- Simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check for tenderness and taste a few lentils. They should be soft but not mushy.
Don’t forget to keep an eye on the liquid. If it gets too thick, add more broth or water as needed to keep a nice soup consistency.
How to Make Hearty Lentil Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for warm flavor)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for depth)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
For Serving:
- Crusty bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty lentil soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 35-40 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to serving. It’s a quick and cozy meal perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s warm, toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Let them cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
2. Add Garlic and Spices:
Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, bay leaf, cumin (if you choose to use it), and tomato paste (if you’re adding it) into the pot. Cook this mix for another 1-2 minutes until everything is nicely aromatic, filling your kitchen with delightful smells!
3. Bring to a Boil:
Stir in the rinsed lentils, then pour in the vegetable broth or water. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a brisk boil. This initial boil helps to pack in flavors!
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let your soup simmer gently, uncovered, for about 30-35 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep everything moving. The lentils should be tender when done, so keep an eye on them!
5. Add Greens:
If you’re using fresh spinach or kale, now is the time to stir it in. Do this 5 minutes before the soup is finished cooking to let the greens wilt perfectly.
6. Final Touches:
When your lentils are cooked and the greens are wilted, remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. For a nice finishing touch, stir in fresh lemon juice for extra brightness if you like!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve it hot alongside crusty bread. Enjoy your hearty lentil soup with family and friends, basking in the warmth this dish brings!
This nourishing lentil soup features vibrant chunks of carrot, tender lentils, and leafy greens swimming in a rich broth—a perfect comforting meal for any day!
Can I Use Different Types of Lentils?
Absolutely! While brown and green lentils work best for this soup due to their sturdy texture, you can also use red lentils. Just remember, red lentils cook faster and will become softer, blending more into the soup’s consistency.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
This lentil soup is naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth. Just be sure to check labels for any ingredients in the broth or canned products. If you’re using tomato paste, opt for an organic one without additives for a clean vegan option!
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can! The soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after a day. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. Make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results!