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Lentil Soup Recipe

Lentil Soup Recipe

A well-made lentil soup recipe is the kind of meal you rely on when you want something filling, budget-friendly, and deeply comforting.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 230
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1 cup dried lentils green or brown, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
Liquid & Seasoning
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Flavor Enhancers
  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Garnish Optional
  • Fresh parsley chopped
  • Extra lemon wedges

Method
 

  1. Rinse lentils thoroughly and prepare all vegetables by chopping them evenly for consistent cooking.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened, then add garlic and cook briefly.
  3. Stir in spices and toast them gently to enhance their flavor before adding liquids.
  4. Add lentils, tomatoes, broth, water, and bay leaf, then bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Remove bay leaf, add lemon juice, and adjust seasoning before serving.

Notes

  • Always taste at the end and adjust acidity with lemon juice to balance the earthy lentils properly.
  • Keep the heat low during simmering to maintain texture and prevent overcooking the lentils.
  • Use fresh spices for a more vibrant and aromatic soup that stands out in flavor.
  • Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors can settle and deepen.