Imagine a single recipe that can transport you around the world, packed with nutrition, flavor, and pure culinary magic! Our Nine Great Lentil Soups recipe is not just another soup - it's a heartwarming journey of taste that will revolutionize your kitchen and tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or someone looking for a delicious and easy meal, this lentil soup is your ultimate solution to satisfying, nutritious dining.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Global
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups mixed lentils
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. This will make the cooking process smoother and more organized.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1 minute.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
- Next, add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Rinse the mixed lentils under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any debris or dust. Drain well.
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the 8 cups of vegetable broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Then, add the bay leaf for additional flavor.
- Bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
- Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- After 30 minutes, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
- If desired, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup for a creamier texture, or leave it as is for a chunkier style.
- Once finished, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty lentil soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side.
Tips
- Choose Your Lentils Wisely: Mix different types of lentils for varied texture and nutrition. Red, green, and brown lentils each bring unique characteristics to the soup.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing onions and garlic. This builds a deep flavor foundation for your entire soup.
- Broth Matters: Use high-quality vegetable broth or consider making your own for an extra flavor boost.
- Customize Your Texture: Use an immersion blender to create a creamy consistency or keep it chunky for more bite.
- Make Ahead and Freeze: This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Enhance with Toppings: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of yogurt to elevate the dish.
- Experiment with Spices: While the recipe calls for thyme, don't be afraid to add cumin, paprika, or other global spices to change the flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
