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Lentil Soup

Hearty Lentil Soup

Packed with protein-rich lentils, fresh vegetables, and warming spices, this hearty lentil soup transforms simple pantry staples into a nourishing and comforting meal. With smoky paprika, earthy cumin, and a bright finish of lemon, it’s the perfect cozy dish for weeknight dinners or make-ahead lunches.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, LUNCH, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the base
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped (white, brown, or yellow)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large carrot, diced (about 1 ¼ cups)
  • 2 stalks celery, diced (about 1 ¼ cups)
For the soup
  • 2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (400 g / 14 oz)
  • 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 2 dried bay leaves
Finishing touches
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1/4 tsp salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper plus more to taste

Method
 

  1. Warm olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Stir in carrot and celery. Cook slowly for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  3. Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, cumin, coriander, paprika, bay leaves, and broth. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Skim foam if needed. Cover partially and cook for 35–40 minutes until lentils are tender.
  5. Remove bay leaves. Blend briefly with an immersion blender or puree 2 cups in a blender and return to the pot.
  6. Stir in lemon zest and juice. Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or water as needed.

Notes

For a spicier version, add chili flakes or cayenne. Stir in spinach, kale, or zucchini at the end for added nutrition. Red lentils can be used but will cook faster and yield a creamier texture. To make it heartier, add shredded chicken or crumbled sausage (use poultry-based for a lighter option).