Hearty Lentil Soup Recipe for All Occasions

Lentil soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day. The earthy aroma wafts through the air as you simmer those vibrant legumes into a delightful concoction of flavor and comfort. Each spoonful offers a satisfying blend of textures—a slight creaminess from the cooked lentils mixed with the crunch of fresh vegetables that keeps you coming back for more.

Growing up, my grandma’s kitchen was always filled with laughter and the delicious scent of her famous lentil soup. It was the go-to meal during family gatherings and cold winter evenings. Now, every time I make it, I’m transported back to those cozy moments around the dinner table, eagerly slurping away as we swapped stories and shared love.

One chilly evening when I served this recipe at my family gathering, my cousin took one bite and declared it “life-changing.” I think he was slightly exaggerating, but hey, who doesn’t want to be known as the “soup savior” of family events?

Essential Ingredients

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

• • Lentils: Use green or brown lentils; they hold their shape well during cooking.
  • Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; opt for bright orange ones for visual appeal.
  • Celery: Celery enhances flavor; choose crisp stalks for the best texture.
  • Onion: A medium onion brings depth to your broth; finely chop it for even cooking.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the taste; use 2-3 cloves minced for optimal flavor.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add acidity; go for fire-roasted varieties if you like smoky flavors.
  • Vegetable Broth: This forms the base; use low-sodium broth to control saltiness in your soup.
  • Spices (Cumin, Thyme): Ground cumin adds warmth while thyme contributes an aromatic touch; adjust according to your taste.
  • Bay Leaf: Add one bay leaf during cooking for additional depth; remember to remove before serving!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Veggies: Start by chopping all your vegetables—onions, carrots, celery—into evenly sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and uniform texture throughout.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and toss in chopped onions. Sauté until translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes—then add minced garlic.

Add Lentils & Spices: Stir in rinsed lentils along with diced tomatoes and spices like cumin and thyme. Let them mingle for about two minutes until aromatic.

Pour in Broth & Simmer Away!: Pour vegetable broth into the pot and throw in your bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low; let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.

Taste & Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed—it’s all about personal preference here.

Serve & Enjoy!: Ladle that beautiful lentil soup into bowls. You can top with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt if you’re feeling fancy!

There you have it—a simple yet satisfying lentil soup recipe that warms both heart and belly!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until golden, then add lentils and broth for optimal flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to toss in some diced carrots or spinach for added nutrition and a splash of color.

Storing & Reheating

Store lentil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days; reheat gently on the stove.

I once made lentil soup for a potluck, and it disappeared faster than my hopes of winning “Best Dish.” Friends went back for seconds, and I left with requests for the recipe — who knew lentils had such a loyal fan club?

FAQ

Can I freeze lentil soup?

Yes, lentil soup freezes well; store in airtight containers for up to three months.

What type of lentils should I use?

Green or brown lentils work best; they hold their shape during cooking.

How can I make my lentil soup thicker?

Blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamy texture.

Print

Hearty Lentil Soup

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Sophie Hart
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Lentil soup is a hearty, nourishing dish that combines earthy lentils and fresh vegetables, perfect for cozy nights or any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Chop the onions, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces.
2. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onions until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, and thyme; let cook for 2 minutes.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 0mg