Introduction
Imagine settling in on a cool evening, wrapped in a cozy blanket, as the rich aroma of simmering vegetables and fragrant spices fills your home. That’s the comfort Hearty Lentil Soup – Nutritious & Filling brings to your table. Packed with wholesome ingredients and rich in flavor, this one-pot wonder is ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or for batch cooking your lunches for the week ahead.
The Origins of Hearty Lentil Soup
Lentil soup has been a staple in kitchens across the globe for centuries, from the Mediterranean and Middle East to India and Europe. Lentils are one of the earliest cultivated crops and provide an inexpensive, protein-rich base for a variety of comforting soups and stews. Our version brings together familiar vegetables and warming spices to create a nourishing, satisfying meal that’s both budget-friendly and deeply flavorful.
Unique Ingredients That Shine
The humble lentil is the star of this dish—rich in fiber, plant-based protein, and essential nutrients. We combine it with carrots, celery, tomatoes, garlic, and onion to create a deep flavor base. The addition of cumin and thyme adds earthy, aromatic notes, while a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens everything up and brings balance to the hearty flavors.
Cooking Techniques That Make a Difference
What makes this soup so comforting and easy is the one-pot cooking method. Sautéing the vegetables first helps to develop flavor, and simmering the lentils slowly in broth ensures they become tender and soak up the aromatics. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes, and leftovers often taste even more delicious the next day. A splash of lemon or vinegar at the end adds the perfect finishing touch.
Hearty Lentil Soup – Nutritious and Filling
Description
A warm and filling soup made with lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or warming up on a cool day.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Hearty Lentil Soup – Nutritious & Filling:
Optional garnish
Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
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Chop the Vegetables
Dice the onion, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic before you begin cooking. Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain.
Prepping in advance helps the cooking process go smoothly. -
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, cumin, thyme, and chili flakes, and cook for another minute.
Sautéing the vegetables and spices first builds a deeper flavor base. -
Simmer the Soup
Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 30-35 minutes or until lentils are tender.
Stir occasionally and add a bit of water if the soup becomes too thick. -
Finish and Serve
Stir in the lemon juice just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Lemon juice adds a vibrant note and balances the earthy lentils.
Serving the Dish
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Garnish and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with crusty bread or pita on the side.
The bread helps soak up all the delicious broth.
Note
- Lentils do not need soaking, but rinsing them helps remove debris.
- Add spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes for extra greens.
- Soup can be blended partially or fully for a creamier texture.
- Make a double batch and freeze half for future meals.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
