This hearty lentil soup is packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients like lentils, carrots, and spices. It’s perfect for a cozy day!
I love how this soup warms me up from the inside out! Plus, it’s simple to make and great for meal prep—score!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lentils: I usually go for brown or green lentils as they hold their shape well when cooked. If you’re in a pinch, red lentils can work too, but they cook faster and become mushy.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor to the soup. You can substitute with vegetable oil or coconut oil if needed.
Vegetables: Don’t have carrots or celery? No problem! You can replace them with bell peppers or zucchini. Just chop them up and toss them in!
Spices: If you’re missing cumin or smoked paprika, try using curry powder or Italian seasoning for a different flavor twist.
Greens: Spinach is my go-to because it wilts nicely. However, kale or even Swiss chard work great too. Just chop them roughly before adding.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Lentils?
Getting lentils just right is key to a great soup. Here’s how to ensure your lentils are perfectly cooked:
- Rinse the lentils until the water is clear. This removes any dust or debris.
- Cook the lentils with plenty of liquid in your vegetable broth. This helps them absorb flavor as they simmer.
- Simmer gently! Boiling lentils can break them apart. A low simmer works best.
- Check for doneness. Lentils should be tender but not mushy—about 25-30 minutes usually does the trick.
Following these tips, and you’ll have a delicious lentil soup that everyone will love!
Delicious Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 ½ cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 medium tomato, chopped (or 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp turmeric
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon (plus lemon wedges for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty lentil soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of goodness in just under an hour—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Lentils:
Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any dust or impurties. Set them aside for later!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Once it’s looking good, add in the minced garlic!
3. Add the Veggies:
Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until those vegetables start to soften. Your kitchen should smell amazing by now!
4. Spice It Up:
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and the spices: cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Let that cook together for about 2 minutes to really bring out those flavors.
5. Bring in the Lentils:
Now, add the rinsed lentils and the vegetable broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and veggies are tender.
6. Add the Greens:
When the lentils are cooked, stir in the fresh spinach or kale. Let it cook for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and vibrant.
7. Season & Finish:
Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste, and stir in the lemon juice for a refreshing kick!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve it hot, and if you’re feeling fancy, a slice of crusty bread pairs beautifully with this soup!
Enjoy your nourishing and vibrant lentil soup; it’s not just delicious but also packed with goodness!
Can I Use Different Types of Lentils in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! While brown or green lentils are recommended because they hold their shape, you can also use red lentils. Just keep in mind that red lentils cook faster and will become softer, giving the soup a thicker texture.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing!
How Do I Spice Up the Soup if It’s Too Mild?
If you’re looking for more heat or flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce. You can also increase the amount of cumin and smoked paprika for a stronger spice profile.
What Should I Serve With Lentil Soup?
This soup is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. Enjoy experimenting with different sides!