Hearty Lentil Soup Recipe

Nothing warms the heart and soul quite like a bowl of Hearty Lentil Soup. This comforting dish is not just delicious but also a celebration of simplicity and nourishment, ideal for a cozy family dinner. The blend of colorful vegetables and perfectly seasoned lentils brings a symphony of flavors in every spoonful. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you satisfied and eager to share with your loved ones.

Recipe Summary

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
• Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, and paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
5. Cover and let it simmer for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
7. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve alongside crusty bread.

Helpful Tips

For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back into the pot. Experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to customize this soup to your family’s taste.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re out of vegetable broth, chicken broth can be used instead. Red lentils can be substituted with green or brown lentils, though cooking times may vary.

Pairings

This hearty lentil soup pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a side of crusty garlic bread. For a complete meal experience, enjoy it with a glass of light red wine or a refreshing lemonade.

We hope you find warmth and joy in making this Hearty Lentil Soup. Share your stunning creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We love hearing your feedback! Leave a comment on our website Zynahz. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and follow us on social media for daily inspiration. Bon Appétit!