Hearty Lentil Soup

Hearty Lentil Soup: A Cozy, Nourishing Bowl of Comfort

As the leaves begin to turn crispy and the air carries that delightful chill, there’s nothing quite like coming home to a warm, fragrant kitchen. This Hearty Lentil Soup is my go-to recipe for those cozy evenings spent in the company of family and friends. It’s a dish that wraps you in a blanket of warmth, like a hug in a bowl. Each spoonful is packed with tender lentils, vibrant vegetables, and a sprinkle of spices that dance on your taste buds, reminding you of home.

I remember the first time I made this soup on a snowy evening. It filled my tiny kitchen with an aroma so inviting that my neighbors came knocking, lured by the scent. It’s this recipe that turned into a cherished tradition, one I turn to whenever I crave comfort food. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this soup brings together simple ingredients for a delightful meal you’ll want to savor all season long.

This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare – perfect for busy weeknights!
• Packed with nourishing ingredients, making it a healthy choice for your family.
• A crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will love.
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences!
• Great for meal prep – make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.

What You’ll Need

To create this delightful Hearty Lentil Soup, gather the following simple ingredients. You’ll find they are easy to keep on hand for those cool evenings when you crave something warm and comforting:

• 1 cup lentils
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 bay leaves

Let’s Make It Together

Now, let’s dive into the heart of the kitchen! Follow these simple steps to whip up your Hearty Lentil Soup:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes will do.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting the aroma of garlic fill the air.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a gentle boil, watching as the ingredients mingle and create a comforting melody.
5. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Your kitchen will start to feel cozy and warm!
6. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving.
7. Enjoy your hearty soup with a crusty loaf of bread or a cozy blanket!

Delicious Variations to Try

The beauty of this Hearty Lentil Soup is that it serves as a perfect base for a variety of flavor twists:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a zesty, warming kick.
• Creamy Texture: Stir in a dollop of coconut milk or a splash of plant-based cream at the end for a rich, creamy soup.
• Herbed Goodness: Top your serving with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a touch of freshness.
• Nutty Addition: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients and color.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

To ensure your Hearty Lentil Soup turns out perfect every single time, keep these kitchen secrets in mind:

• Make-Ahead Magic: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week! Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to swap out lentils for beans or use whatever leftover veggies you have on hand—this recipe is super versatile!
• Slicing Tricks: Dice your vegetables in uniform sizes for even cooking, ensuring everything is tender and delicious.
• Freezing for Later: Portion out leftovers in single servings and freeze them for those nights when you need a quick warm-up.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Each serving of this Hearty Lentil Soup is not only comforting but packed with nutrition! Here’s a closer look at what you’re enjoying:

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 230
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fat: 6g
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 360mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! The flavors only improve after a day in the fridge.

Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with fresh vegetables or herbs you have on hand.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to one week.

How long does it last?
In the fridge, it lasts about a week, and in the freezer, it can remain delicious for up to three months!

A Cozy Closing Note

As you share this Hearty Lentil Soup with your loved ones, remember that the best recipes often come with stories and memories. It’s a dish that not only fills the belly but warms the heart. Save this Hearty Lentil Soup to your cozy recipes board so it’s ready when you need a comforting treat! Happy cooking!

Hearty Lentil Soup

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• Author: Chef Emma
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free

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Description

A cozy and nourishing bowl of Hearty Lentil Soup, perfect for chilly evenings and packed with tender lentils and vibrant vegetables.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup lentils
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 bay leaves

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
5. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Remove the bay leaves before serving and enjoy with crusty bread.

Notes

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week and can be frozen for quick meals later.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 15g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: lentil soup, vegan soup, comfort food, hearty soup, easy recipe