Lentil soup is one of the most comforting and nutritious dishes enjoyed around the world. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this wholesome soup offers a satisfying combination of earthy lentils, aromatic vegetables, and gentle spices. It is perfect for cozy dinners, healthy lunches, or meal preparation.
Lentil Soup:
This traditional soup is loved for its rich texture and hearty flavor. Lentils cook quickly compared to other legumes, making lentil soup an ideal choice for busy days when you want a nourishing homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.Besides being delicious, lentil soup is highly nutritious. Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it supports a balanced diet while remaining budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
History:
Lentils are among the oldest cultivated foods in human history, dating back more than 9,000 years. Ancient civilizations in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions relied heavily on lentils as a staple food due to their long shelf life and high nutritional value.Over centuries, lentil evolved into many regional variations. From thick European-style soups to spiced Middle Eastern versions and simple rustic recipes, lentil remains a timeless comfort food enjoyed across cultures.
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Hearty Homemade Lentil Soup – A Nourishing, Comforting
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils (washed and rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 carrots (chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 5 cups vegetable broth or water
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley or coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Wash lentils thoroughly and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until soft.
- Add carrots and celery and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.
- Add lentils and broth.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 35–40 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf.
- Serve hot with fresh herbs.
Notes
- Red lentils cook faster than brown lentils.
- Add more broth for thinner soup.
- Use fresh vegetables for best flavour.
- Soup thickens after cooling.
- Store in refrigerator up to 4 days.
- Can be frozen for 3 months.
- Stir before reheating.
- Adjust spices to taste.
Tips for Lentil Soup:
- Soak lentils for quicker cooking.
- Add spinach for extra nutrition.
- Use homemade broth for better flavour.
- Blend partially for creamy texture.
- Add chili flakes for spice.
- Cook on low heat for richer taste.
- Add butter for extra richness.
- Serve with warm bread.
FAQs for Lentil Soup:
1. Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, reduce cooking time to 20 minutes.
2. Is soup healthy?
Yes, it is rich in protein and fiber.
3. Can I freeze lentil?
Yes, it freezes very well.
4. How do I thicken lentil?
Blend part of the soup.
5. Can I make it vegan?
Yes, use vegetable broth.
6. Which lentils are best?
Red or brown lentils work best.
Conclusion:
Lentil soup is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity, nutrition, and comfort in one delicious bowl. It is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for everyday meals. Whether served as a light lunch or hearty dinner, lentil soup remains a reliable and satisfying choice for home cooks.