Hearty Lentil Soup

Hearty Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
– 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
– Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar for brightness
– Toasted bread slices for serving

Instructions:

1. **Sauté the Vegetables:**
– In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. **Add the Lentils and Spices:**
– Stir in the lentils, cumin, thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
– Cook for 2 minutes to allow the lentils to absorb the flavors.

3. **Add the Broth:**
– Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the bay leaf.
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

4. **Add the Tomatoes (Optional):**
– If using diced tomatoes, stir them in once the lentils are tender, and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes.

5. **Finish the Soup:**
– Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice or vinegar if desired.

6. **Serve:**
– Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra fresh parsley.
– Serve with toasted bread slices on the side or floating on top of the soup for a hearty, satisfying meal.

This lentil soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Enjoy!