Easy and Delicious Lentil Soup Recipe

Name: Easy and Delicious Lentil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Heritage
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; Olive oil for sautéing; Fresh parsley for garnish

By Sophie Hart – Recipes and Home Inspiration

March 8, 2025

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The aroma of simmering spices wafts through the air as you stand by the stove, stirring your pot of love—yes, that’s right; we’re talking about a soul-warming lentil soup recipe. Picture this: tender lentils dancing in a broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices, all coming together to create a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that wraps you in a cozy blanket on those chilly nights.

Ah, but this isn’t just any ordinary recipe; it holds memories like grandma’s old quilt. I remember making this dish with my family every Sunday after church. The kitchen would fill with laughter as we chopped veggies and argued over who got to add the secret ingredient—a pinch of love (and maybe some chili flakes). So grab your favorite spoon and let’s dive into the joy of cooking this delightful lentil soup!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This lentil soup recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Its rich flavors offer a comforting meal that’s also visually appealing with vibrant colors
Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry!

I once served this lentil soup at a dinner party where my friends thought I had become a professional chef overnight—it was that good!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Green or Brown Lentils: Choose firm lentils that hold their shape well; they cook evenly and provide great texture.
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness; look for bright orange ones for the best flavor.
Celery Stalks: These add crunchiness and depth; crisp stalks are crucial for flavor balance.
Onion: A yellow onion is perfect; its sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they infuse the soup with aromatic goodness.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while preserving rich flavors.
Bay Leaves: These aromatic leaves elevate the taste; always remove them before serving!
Cumin Powder: Adds warmth and earthiness; adjust according to your spice preference.
Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like things spicy, add these for an extra kick!
Olive Oil: A drizzle adds richness; use high-quality oil for maximum flavor impact.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Chopped parsley adds freshness and color when serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Veggies: Start by dicing your onions, carrots, and celery into small pieces. This mirepoix blend creates an aromatic base for your soup.

Sauté Until Aromatic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced veggies and sauté until they soften and the onions become translucent—about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic & Spices: Stir in minced garlic along with cumin powder and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for another minute until fragrant—this step builds up amazing flavors.

Add Lentils & Broth: Toss in your rinsed lentils along with vegetable broth and bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to simmer gently.

Cook Until Tender: Let your soup simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

Taste & Adjust: Remove bay leaves before tasting! Adjust seasoning as needed—perhaps a splash more broth or seasoning to suit your palate.

Now you have made yourself a delicious bowl of hearty goodness! Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley for that finishing touch.

Enjoying this delightful lentil soup recipe will surely make you feel good inside out!

You Must Know

This lentil soup recipe is not just hearty; it’s a hug in a bowl
The spices and veggies create an aroma that fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist
Perfect for chilly nights or when you need comfort food that’s healthy

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing your onions and garlic until they’re golden. Then add carrots and celery before tossing in the lentils and broth for maximum flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out lentils for chickpeas or add spinach for extra nutrients. A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding water if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always rinse lentils before cooking to remove any dirt or debris
Opt for vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor
Don’t skip the spice blend; it elevates the dish from good to unforgettable!

Nothing warms my heart like when my friends devour this lentil soup, asking for seconds after every chilly gathering. Their smiles are my favorite seasoning!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other types of lentils in this lentil soup recipe?

Yes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary between different types of lentils.

How can I make this lentil soup recipe vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and it remains deliciously meat-free!

Can I freeze this lentil soup recipe?

Absolutely! Portion it into containers and freeze for up to three months without losing flavor.

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