Welcome to the comforting world of Lentil Soup Sopa de Lentejas, a delightful Mexican dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds! This hearty soup is not only packed with flavor but also brimming with nutritious ingredients that make it a perfect choice for any meal. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a bowl of deliciousness that will have your family begging for seconds. Ready to discover the secrets behind this irresistible recipe? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Continue to sauté the mixture for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Rinse the lentils under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. Once rinsed, add the lentils to the pot along with the vegetable broth.
- Season the soup with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Once the lentils are cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the soup is too thick, you can add more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Enjoy your delicious and hearty Lentil Soup Sopa de Lentejas with crusty bread or on its own!
Tips
- Choose the Right Lentils: While brown or green lentils work well, red lentils cook faster and break down for a creamier texture. Choose according to your preference!
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables in advance to save time. You can even rinse the lentils beforehand to make the cooking process smoother.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a splash of lemon juice before serving. This brightens the dish and adds a lovely zing!
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more vegetable broth or water as it simmers. For a thicker consistency, let it cook a bit longer uncovered.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch, but feel free to experiment with toppings like avocado slices, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve your soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will satisfy your hunger and delight your palate!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
