Winter’s chill is here, and nothing warms us like a bowl of lentil soup. Growing up, the smell of cooking and fresh bread filled our home. It meant it was time for a cozy meal together. My grandmother Sandy’s lentil soup recipe is a family treasure I’m happy to share.
This soup is not just tasty; it’s also full of good stuff for your body. Lentils, veggies, and herbs blend into a flavorful mix. Add some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s great for cold nights or when you’re with friends and family.
Key Takeaways
- Hearty and comforting lentil soup recipe
- Packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and plant-based protein
- Versatile dish that can be customized with different greens and flavors
- Pairs perfectly with crusty bread for a satisfying and nourishing meal
- Easy to prepare and can be made in advance for meal prep
Classic Lentil Soup Recipe
Lentil soup is a standout for its nourishment and heartiness. It’s made with green or French lentils, fresh veggies, and herbs. This mix creates a flavorful and satisfying soup.
Hearty and Nourishing
Lentils are the main ingredient, packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients. Green or brown lentils work best because they keep their shape. The soup’s base is a mix of celery, carrots, onions, and garlic, with low-sodium vegetable broth.
Packed with Greens and Veggies
This recipe adds fresh greens and veggies to the lentils and aromatics. It’s a nutrient-rich meal. The mix of greens, veggies, and lentils makes for a balanced and filling soup.
Each serving of this soup is about 2 cups. It has 420 calories, 56 grams of carbs, 18 grams of protein, and 22 grams of fiber. It’s a nutrient-packed soup that keeps you full and energized.
Lentil Soup Ingredients
At the heart of this comforting lentil soup are the star ingredients – green or French green lentils. These varieties hold their shape beautifully in the soup, providing a satisfying texture. Alongside the lentils, the recipe calls for a flavorful mirepoix of aromatic vegetables, including onions, carrots, and celery. Fresh herbs like thyme and garlic also play a crucial role in building the soup’s complex, savory flavors.
Green or French Lentils
The choice between green or French green lentils is an important one for this recipe. Both varieties are known for their ability to maintain their shape and structure during the cooking process, which is essential for creating a hearty, well-textured lentil soup. Green lentils offer a slightly earthy, peppery flavor, while French green lentils have a more delicate, slightly peppery taste.
Aromatic Vegetables and Herbs
To build a robust foundation of flavor, the recipe calls for sautéing a classic mirepoix of onions, carrots, and celery. These aromatic vegetables, along with fresh thyme and garlic, infuse the soup with a warm, savory aroma. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful base that perfectly complements the nutty, satisfying lentils.
By carefully selecting and preparing these key ingredients, you can create a lentil soup that is not only nourishing but also deeply satisfying. The interplay of the lentils, aromatic vegetables, and fresh herbs results in a harmonious blend of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Lentil Soup with Crusty Bread
Lentil soup is the ultimate comfort food. Pairing it with crusty bread makes it even better. The lentil soup is rich in protein and tastes great alone. But, adding crusty bread lets you enjoy every bit of the broth.
The soup and bread pairing offers endless options. A warm, crusty bread can turn a simple lentil soup into a cozy meal. It adds a special touch to your dining experience.
The lentil soup has a mix of aromatic veggies and herbs. The crusty bread adds a nice texture. It’s perfect for scooping up the soup, making sure you get every flavor.
Choose from a baguette, rustic sourdough, or hearty whole-grain loaf. The crusty bread pairs well with the lentil soup. Together, they make a meal that’s both harmonious and fulfilling.
“The combination of lentil soup and crusty bread is a classic pairing that never fails to warm the soul and nourish the body.”
Next time you want a comforting meal, try lentil soup with crusty bread. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a satisfying and delightful meal.
Preparing the Lentil Soup
To make this tasty lentil soup, start by sautéing the aromatic vegetables. In a big pot or Dutch oven, cook the onion, carrot, and celery in olive oil. They should get fragrant and soft. This step is crucial for the soup’s rich taste.
Sautéing the Aromatics
After sautéing the veggies, add minced garlic and spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and black pepper. These spices add warmth and depth, enhancing the lentils’ natural flavor.
Simmering for Flavor
Now, add the how to make lentil soup – the main ingredient. Mix in lentils, broth, and water. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This time lets the lentils soften and the flavors blend well.
While the soup simmers, your kitchen will smell amazing. The sautéing aromatics and simmering lentil soup create a delicious aroma. You’ll end up with a hearty, flavorful soup.
“The slow, steady simmering process is key to unlocking the full potential of this lentil soup. It allows the flavors to meld and the lentils to become perfectly tender.”
Variations and Substitutions
This lentil soup recipe is very flexible. You can make it your own by changing a few things. Try swapping the kale for other leafy greens like spinach, Swiss chard, or mustard greens.
Leafy Greens Swap
- Spinach: Replace the kale with fresh spinach leaves. Spinach tastes milder and cooks fast.
- Swiss Chard: Use Swiss chard instead of kale. Its leaves have a bit of bitterness that goes well with lentils.
- Mustard Greens: Choose peppery mustard greens for a stronger flavor in your soup.
Herb and Vinegar Options
You can also play with herbs and vinegar to enhance the taste. Try using dried thyme instead of fresh. Or add a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy finish.
- Dried Thyme: Use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead of fresh parsley, added with other spices.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Add 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Lemon Juice: Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice into the soup for a zesty kick.
By trying these simple swaps and additions, you can make this lentil soup your own. It will match your taste perfectly.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Lentil soup is a delightful and nourishing meal on its own. It also pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
A simple green salad or a slice of crusty bread are great pairings. They complement the heartiness of the lentil soup. The soup’s earthy flavors are balanced by the salad’s crunch and freshness. The bread is perfect for soaking up the broth.
| Serving Suggestion | Pairing Idea |
|---|---|
| Lentil Soup in Bowls |
|
| Accompaniments |
|
For a heartier meal, pair the lentil soup with roasted meats. Try chicken madeira or pork tenderloin. The soup and the main dish together make a balanced and nourishing meal.
The beauty of lentil soup is its versatility. Feel free to try different toppings, sides, and pairings. Find the perfect combination that suits your taste and dietary needs.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Lentil soup is great for meal prep and leftovers. It’s easy to keep it fresh with the right storage methods. This way, you can enjoy your nutritious lentil soup for longer.
Refrigerating the Soup
To store lentil soup in the fridge, cool it down first. Then, put it in an airtight container. It stays good for up to 4 days.
When you’re ready to eat it, just heat it up. You can use the stovetop or microwave. Add a bit of water if it’s too thick.
Freezing for Meal Prep
For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Cool it down completely before freezing. Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
To thaw and reheat, put it in the fridge overnight. Then, heat it up on the stove or in the microwave until it’s hot.
Lentil soup is perfect for meal prep because it freezes well. Enjoy its rich flavors for weeks by freezing it.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Follow these tips to keep your lentil soup fresh and tasty. Enjoy it now or save it for later.
Nutritional Benefits of Lentils
Lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. They are a great source of folate, iron, and antioxidants. Eating lentils often can help your heart, improve digestion, and aid in weight control.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 162 kcal | – |
| Total Fat | 4.2g | 7% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 20g | 7% |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.5g | 22% |
| Protein | 10.1g | 21% |
Red lentils are rich in fiber, folate, and potassium. They have a soft texture that’s perfect for creamy soups. One cup of cooked lentils has about 230 calories, 39.9 grams of carbs, 17.9 grams of protein, 15.6 grams of fiber, and many vitamins and minerals.
The fiber in lentils helps with regular bowel movements and gut health. Different lentil types offer different nutrients. So, mixing them up in your diet can bring more health benefits.
Lentils are a great plant-based protein source. They also have positive effects on heart health. Whether you pick green, brown, or red lentils, they’re a nutritious and tasty addition to your meals.
More Hearty Soup Recipes
If you love this tasty lentil soup, you’ll find many more nourishing soups for winter. Try classic vegetarian soup recipes like Minestrone Soup and Vegetable Soup. Also, explore heartier other hearty soup recipes such as Cabbage Soup and Butternut Squash Soup. These cozy, plant-based options will keep you warm on a cold day.
Looking for something more filling? Try winter soups like Vegetarian Chili and Black Bean Soup. They’re packed with wholesome ingredients and full of flavor. These soups are perfect for a comforting meal.
These other hearty soup recipes and vegetarian soup recipes will quickly become your new favorites. Enjoy the rich flavors and health benefits of these soups all winter long.
Conclusion
This lentil soup recipe is a must-try for a healthy, flavorful, and comforting meal. It combines tender lentils, fresh veggies, and aromatic herbs and spices. This easy lentil soup is great on its own or with crusty bread. It’s versatile and easy to make, making it a new favorite in your meals.
The lentil soup recap shows its many benefits. It’s full of nutrients and has a special place in Lebanese cuisine. It’s perfect for a warm meal or to share with loved ones. This lentil soup is sure to impress with its flavors and health benefits.
So, why not try this comfort food soup? It’s easy to make with simple ingredients. You’ll get a satisfying and healthy meal that will become a staple. Enjoy the flavors, nourish your body, and make memories with this delicious lentil soup recipe.