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Why Make This Recipe
Classic Lentil Soup is a wholesome and hearty dish that is perfect for any season. It’s packed with nutrients and flavor, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner or a healthy lunch. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, which means this soup will keep you full and satisfied. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that requires simple ingredients, making it a favorite in many households.
How to Make Classic Lentil Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 3 carrots (sliced)
- 2 stalks celery (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 bay leaves
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups dry green lentils (sorted and rinsed)
- 1 14.5 ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 3-4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
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Aromatics: Warm the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the carrots and celery and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add the tomato paste and mix until evenly distributed. Sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
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Spices: Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, cumin, bay leaves, and black pepper to the pot. Mix well and sauté for 1 minute to toast the spices.
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Simmer: Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and 3 cups of water to the pot. Stir well, then bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender. If the soup becomes too thick, add the additional cup of water as needed.
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Finishing Touches: Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Add the lemon juice and mix well. Taste and season with salt and pepper if necessary.
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Serve: Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
How to Serve Classic Lentil Soup
Serve Classic Lentil Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad. Enjoy it as a warm meal during chilly days or as a nourishing lunch.
How to Store Classic Lentil Soup
Let the soup cool completely before storing. You can keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Classic Lentil Soup
- Rinse the lentils: Always sort and rinse the lentils before cooking to remove any debris or stones.
- Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less water during cooking. For a brothier soup, add more water as needed.
- Herbs and spices: Feel free to adjust or add herbs and spices based on your preferences. Fresh thyme or bay leaves can enhance the flavor further.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or potatoes to the soup for extra nutrition. Additionally, using different types of lentils, such as red or brown, will create a slightly different texture and flavor.
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FAQs
1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of the amount specified for fresh herbs.
2. Is this soup vegan?
Yes, Classic Lentil Soup is completely vegan as it is made with vegetable broth and no animal products.
3. Can I meal prep this soup?
Absolutely! Lentil soup is great for meal prepping. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
4. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, if you’d like to add meat, cooked sausage or diced ham works well. Just add it after sautéing the aromatics before adding the lentils and broth.
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