Go Back
Lentil Soup
Alyssa

Hearty Lentil Soup Recipe

Indulge in the rich flavors of our Lentil Soup Recipe! Perfectly balanced spices, hearty lentils, and a burst of freshness make every spoonful a delight. It's not just a soup, it's a wholesome experience. Try it today and elevate your mealtime!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing the vegetables.
  • Onion: 1 medium finely chopped, adds sweetness and depth.
  • Garlic: 6 cloves finely chopped or minced, for a robust flavor.
  • Carrots: 3 finely chopped, contribute sweetness and texture.
  • Celery Stalks: 3 cups finely chopped, for a subtle, earthy flavor.
  • Salt: 2 teaspoons enhances all the flavors.
  • Lentils: 1 pound picked and rinsed, the base of the soup, providing protein and texture.
  • Diced Tomatoes: 1 15-ounce can, adds acidity and richness.
  • Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 6 cups forms the soup's flavorful liquid base.
  • Ground Coriander: 1/2 teaspoon for a citrusy, nutty flavor.
  • Ground Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon adds earthiness and warmth.
  • Ground Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon for a mild heat.
  • Ground All-Spice: 1/4 teaspoon contributes a warm, sweet flavor.
  • Ground Ginger: 1/4 teaspoon for a spicy, zesty kick.
  • Lemon Juice: From 1/2 lemon about 2 teaspoons, adds freshness and brightness.

Method
 

  1. Start the Sauté: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the onions become translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
  2. Combine the Ingredients: Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, ground coriander, cumin, black pepper, all-spice, and ginger. Stir well to combine everything.
  3. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes. This allows the lentils to become tender and the flavors to meld.
  4. Season and Add Lemon Juice: After the lentils are tender, season the soup with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice.
  5. Blend for Creaminess (Optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer about 2 cups of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot. Stir well to combine. If the soup is too thick, add additional broth to reach your desired consistency.

Notes

  • Lentil Variety: Brown or green lentils are ideal for this soup as they hold their shape well. Red lentils tend to become mushy.
  • No Pre-Soaking Needed: Lentils cook quickly and don't require soaking.
  • Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
  • Spice Adjustments: If you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.