LENTIL SOUP
Title: Hearty Lentil Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Lentils:
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices:
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.
- Incorporate Lentils and Tomatoes:
- Add rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in Broth:
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
- Add Greens and Lemon Juice:
- Stir in chopped kale or spinach and cook until wilted. Add the juice of one lemon to brighten the flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hearty lentil soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Time and Intensity:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
- Intensity: Easy
Note: This Hearty Lentil Soup is a nutritious and satisfying dish that’s easy to make. Packed with vegetables, lentils, and a blend of aromatic spices, it’s a comforting option for a wholesome meal. Enjoy the warmth and nourishment of this hearty lentil soup, especially on chilly days!
