Lentil Soup Recipe: A Hearty and Healthy Meal
This lentil soup recipe is a delicious and nutritious option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. It's easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with flavor and protein. This recipe is easily customizable to your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Let's dive into the details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Rinse the lentils: This step helps remove any debris and ensures a smoother texture.
Sautéing the Vegetables:
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Heat the olive oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Simmering the Soup:
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Add lentils and broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Reduce heat and simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally.
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Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference.
Serving and Enjoying:
- Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with a lemon wedge for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- For a creamier soup: Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, zucchini, or spinach. Add them along with the carrots and celery.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked sausage, bacon, or chicken for extra protein.
- Use different lentils: Red lentils cook faster, requiring less simmering time.
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Conclusion:
This hearty and healthy lentil soup is a perfect meal for any occasion. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend afternoons. Enjoy!
