Description
This hearty Vegan Lentil and Tomato Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s packed with protein, fiber, and rich tomato flavor. Perfect for chilly evenings or a quick, wholesome meal, this soup combines tender lentils, aromatic spices, and a touch of lemon for brightness. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a one-pot wonder you’ll keep coming back to!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the Spices and Lentils:
- Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the lentils and mix well to coat them in the spices.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, and add the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season and Finish:
- Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the lemon juice and salt, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.
Notes
- For a creamier soup, blend half of the mixture using an immersion blender or regular blender, then stir it back into the pot.
- Use red lentils for a quicker cooking time and a softer texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Soups and Stews