Classic Lentil Soup Recipe

Classic Lentil Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional:

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (to brighten the flavors)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the diced carrots and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
2. Add the Spices:
   • Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
   • Cook for another minute to allow the spices to become fragrant.
3. Add Lentils and Liquids:
   • Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth (or water).
   • Stir well to combine and bring the soup to a boil.
4. Simmer:
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
   • If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or a regular blender, then stir it back into the pot.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
   • If using, stir in the red pepper flakes for a bit of heat and/or the lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
   • Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions:

• This lentil soup is perfect with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.
• You can also top the soup with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added richness.

This lentil soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a healthy meal. Enjoy!