Soup, a timeless classic and a comforting meal for many, finds its essence in simplicity and warmth. While its roots may vary, its appeal remains universal, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures that soothe the soul.

Crafting this lentil soup is an endeavor marked by ease and accessibility, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned chefs and novice cooks alike.

With just a handful of humble ingredients, including lentils, onions, tomatoes, and a medley of spices, this recipe transforms into a rich, velvety concoction that delights the taste buds and warms the heart.

Whether you seek a quick weeknight meal or a wholesome lunch option, this lentil soup promises to deliver both flavor and sustenance with every spoonful.

Navigating through the steps of this recipe is akin to embarking on a culinary journey where simplicity meets satisfaction.

From the gentle sautéing of onions to the aromatic mingling of garlic and spices, each step unfolds with precision, culminating in a symphony of flavors that dance harmoniously on the palate.

As the soup simmers, filling your kitchen with its tantalizing aroma, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating the moment when you can savor its comforting embrace.

Expert Tip: For added depth of flavor, sauté the spices with the onions and garlic before adding the remaining ingredients to allow the spices to bloom and release their aroma.

Ingredients

Olive Oil: Adds richness and depth to the soup, enhancing its flavor profile with a subtle hint of fruitiness.

Onion: Provides a savory base and sweetness to the soup, infusing it with layers of flavor as it caramelizes.

Tomatoes: Offer a burst of freshness and acidity, balancing the earthy notes of the lentils and spices.

Garlic: Adds pungent warmth and depth to the soup, elevating its aroma and flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the soup, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Cumin Powder: Infuses the soup with a warm, earthy aroma and a hint of smokiness, complementing the lentils beautifully.

Black Pepper: Adds a subtle kick of heat and complexity to the soup, enhancing its depth of flavor.

Red Lentils: Serve as the star ingredient, lending their creamy texture and nutty flavor to the soup.

Carrots: Offer sweetness and vibrant color to the soup, along with a delightful crunch.

Vegetable Stock: Provides a flavorful liquid base for the soup, imparting richness and depth to the overall dish.

Expert Tip: Don’t be afraid to customize this recipe to your liking by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs, such as spinach, kale, or thyme, to create your own unique variation of lentil soup.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
• Pair with crusty bread, such as baguette or sourdough, for dipping and sopping up every last bit of the delicious soup.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
• For a heartier meal, add cooked grains such as rice or quinoa to the soup or serve it over a bed of cooked pasta.
• Accompany with a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added creaminess and depth of flavor.

Expert Tip: To enhance the flavor of the soup, consider adding a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this soup thicker?

To achieve a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of vegetable stock used or simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, you can experiment with different varieties of lentils, such as green or brown lentils, although the cooking time may vary slightly. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the lentils are fully cooked.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes, lentil soup freezes exceptionally well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?

Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. If you prefer a spicier soup, you can increase the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Likewise, you can adjust the salt level to suit your taste.

Check Out These Other Recipes

Here are some more recipes for you to enjoy! If you my recipes don’t forget to rate and leave a comment.

• Tomato Soup
• Chicken Corn Soup
• Potato Leek Soup
• Red Lentil Curry
• Garlic Bread

If you have any recipe suggestions, please do not hesitate to ask me. A great way to stay in contact with me is through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Don’t forget to tag me @CookwithNabeela in your recipe photos!

Lentil Soup

by Nabeela Kauser

Dive into a bowl of heart-warming lentil soup, a culinary delight with roots steeped in rich history. Ideal for those seeking a not-so-difficult cooking adventure that's packed full of flavour and nutrients. 

5 from 8 votes

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine Middle Eastern

Servings 4

Calories 224 kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• ▢ 1 Onion Finely chopped
• ▢ 2 Tomatoes
• ▢ 4 cloves Garlic Minced
• ▢ 1 tsp Salt
• ▢ 1 tsp Cumin Powder
• ▢ 1 tsp Black Pepper
• ▢ 150 g Lentils Red
• ▢ 3 Carrots Coarsely grated
• ▢ 1 litre Vegetable Stock

Instructions

• Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, until translucent.
• Add the tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
• Then add the garlic, salt, black pepper, and cumin powder. Cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
• Pour in the lentils, carrots and stock.
• Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, or until lentils have softened.
• Using a hand blender or a food processor, purée the soup and cook for a further 5 minutes.
• Taste and season with salt and pepper, if required.
• Serve whilst hot with a side of garlic bread.

Notes

Nutritional facts:

The provision of nutritional information is done so merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 224kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 11gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 1614mgPotassium: 718mgFibre: 14gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 8709IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 61mgIron: 4mg

Keyword Comfort Food, Food, Healthy, Lentils, Recipe, Vegan, Winter

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