LENTIL SOUP

Lentil Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups dried lentils (green, brown, or red)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Lentils and Broth

1. Add the dried lentils to the pot and stir them with the vegetables and spices.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and the diced tomatoes with their juices.
3. Add the bay leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

1. Remove the bay leaves and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
2. Stir in the lemon juice for brightness (optional).

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the lentil soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
2. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips:

• Lentil Variety: Green or brown lentils hold their shape well and are great for a heartier texture. Red lentils will cook faster and become softer, creating a creamier soup.
• Optional Add-ins: You can add chopped spinach, kale, or diced potatoes to boost the nutrition of the soup.
• Meaty Version: For extra protein, you can add cooked sausage, ham, or shredded chicken.

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):

• Calories: ~200 kcal
• Protein: ~12g
• Fat: ~4g
• Carbohydrates: ~33g
• Fiber: ~12g

This Lentil Soup is comforting, nutritious, and versatile. It’s perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, and you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences!