Our family loves this lentil soup, and we make it quite often. The smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth of flavor, making it a cozy and comforting meal. With fresh vegetables and simple spices, this soup is both delicious and nutritious.
STEP BY STEP VIDEO GUIDE
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bunch of cilantro, chopped
- 3 large or 4 small carrots, sliced
- 2 celery ribs, sliced
- 14.5 oz canned chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup lentils (soaked in water for 1 hour)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Water (enough to cover vegetables and a bit more)
INSTRUCTIONS for Lentil Soup:
- Prepare Ingredients: Soak lentils in water for 1 hour. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the cilantro, and slice the carrots and celery.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add Vegetables: Add the carrots and celery to the pot, cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Lentils: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, lentils, and cilantro.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
- Add Water: Pour in enough water to cover all the vegetables and lentils, plus a bit more.
- Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 40 minutes, or until the carrots and lentils are soft.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
Benefits of Lentil Soup
- High in Protein: Lentils are a fantastic plant-based protein source, making this soup an excellent option for vegetarians and vegans.
- Rich in Fiber: Lentils are packed with fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
- Nutrient-Dense: This soup provides a variety of essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and lentils.
- Heart-Healthy: Lentils are known to support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure.
- Low in Fat: Lentil soup is low in fat, making it a heart-friendly and weight-conscious choice.
- Budget-Friendly: Lentils are an affordable ingredient, making this soup a cost-effective meal option.
- Versatile: This soup can be easily customized with different spices and vegetables, allowing for variety in your diet.
- Satisfying and Filling: The combination of protein and fiber in lentils keeps you full and satisfied for longer periods, making it a great meal for managing hunger and maintaining energy levels.
How to Make Lentil Soup Better and Customizable Variations:
Enhance Your Lentil Soup:
- Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and a burst of color.
- Incorporate Coconut Milk: For a creamy texture and rich flavor, add a cup of coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
- Use Broth Instead of Water: Replace water with vegetable or chicken broth to deepen the flavor.
- Roast Vegetables First: Roast your carrots, celery, and onions before adding them to the soup for a caramelized flavor boost.
- Top with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro, parsley, or dill just before serving to add freshness and brightness.
- Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A splash of lemon juice just before serving can enhance the flavors and add a zesty kick.
Customizable Variations:
- Spicy Lentil Soup: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Italian Style: Include diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and finish with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Middle Eastern Flair: Incorporate cumin, coriander, and a touch of cinnamon. Garnish with chopped mint and a dollop of yogurt.
- Indian Twist: Add curry powder, turmeric, and garam masala. Serve with a side of naan bread.
- Hearty Addition: Include diced potatoes, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash for a more filling soup.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage for an extra protein punch.
How to Store and Freeze Lentil Soup:
- Refrigeration: Allow the lentil soup to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the desired amount in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl.
Freezing Lentil Soup:
- Cool Completely: Let the soup cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Portioning: Divide the soup into individual portions or family-sized servings. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of containers or bags to allow for expansion as the soup freezes.
- Label: Label each container or bag with the date and contents to keep track of its freshness.
- Freeze: Place the containers or bags in the freezer. Lentil soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Lentil Soup
This hearty lentil soup is packed with vegetables and seasoned with smoked paprika, making it a nutritious and flavorful meal that's easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 bunch of cilantro chopped
- 3 large or 4 small carrots sliced
- 2 celery ribs sliced
- 14.5 oz canned chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup lentils soaked in water for 1 hour
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Water enough to cover vegetables and a bit more
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Soak lentils in water for 1 hour. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the cilantro, and slice the carrots and celery.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add Vegetables: Add the carrots and celery to the pot, cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Lentils: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, lentils, and cilantro.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
- Add Water: Pour in enough water to cover all the vegetables and lentils, plus a bit more.
- Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 40 minutes, or until the carrots and lentils are soft.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
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