Hearty Lentil Soup
This warming lentil soup is packed with vegetables, protein, and wholesome flavors that come together in just 40 minutes. Perfect for meal prep or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a satisfying bowl that keeps you full and nourished.
Ingredients
- 2 cups brown lentils, rinsed
- 4 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 ounces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add rinsed lentils, broth, diced tomatoes with juice, cumin, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Practical Tips
Tip 1: For extra creaminess, blend half the soup and stir it back into the pot, or add a splash of coconut milk at the end for richness without dairy.
Tip 2: Make sure to rinse your lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris and ensure a cleaner, fresher taste.
Tip 3: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld together, making it ideal for batch cooking.
Storage
Store your lentil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Common Questions
Can I use red lentils instead of brown lentils? Red lentils cook faster and break down more easily, creating a creamier texture. They will be done in about 15 minutes, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Is this soup vegan? Yes, this recipe is completely vegan when made with vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. All other ingredients are plant-based.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Spinach, kale, zucchini, or bell peppers work wonderfully. Add heartier vegetables at the beginning and delicate greens in the last few minutes of cooking.