Classic Lentil Soup

This Classic Lentil Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the warmth of a classic mirepoix with nutritious lentils, savory broth, and an aromatic blend of spices. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or as a comforting meal on chilly days. Enjoy this vegan soup with some crusty bread for dunking, making it not just a meal but an experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup can be whipped up in no time.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that will warm you from the inside out.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with lentils and vegetables, this soup is not only filling but also loaded with essential nutrients.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, lunch, or meal prep for the week, this soup fits all settings wonderfully.
• Vegan-Friendly: Suitable for those following a plant-based diet while still being deliciously satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start preparing your Classic Lentil Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for heating ingredients evenly and allowing ample space for simmering the soup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of spices and liquids, which is crucial for achieving the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

This Classic Lentil Soup is made with a classic mirepoix, hearty lentils, savory broth, and the perfect combination of spices. Enjoy a bowl of this warm vegan soup with bread for dunking. Vegan, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free.

Vegetables

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 3 carrots (sliced)
• 2 stalks celery (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Spices

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 2 bay leaves
• Black pepper (to taste)

Lentils & Broth

• 2 cups dry green lentils (sorted and rinsed)
• 1 14.5 ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 3-4 cups water

Finishing Touches

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Classic Lentil Soup

Step 1: Aromatics

Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
1. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Incorporate the sliced carrots and celery; sauté for an additional minute.
3. Add the tomato paste to the vegetables; mix until evenly distributed.
4. Continue sautéing for another 2 to 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Spices

Add flavor by introducing the spices.
1. Mix in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, cumin, bay leaves, and black pepper.
2. Sauté everything together for about 1 minute to toast the spices.

Step 3: Simmer

Now it’s time to bring it all together.
1. Add sorted lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and 3 cups of water into the pot; stir well.
2. Bring everything to a boil over high heat before reducing to medium heat.
3. Let it simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until lentils are tender.
4. If the soup thickens too much for your liking, add up to an additional cup of water as needed.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Make your soup shine!
1. Remove bay leaves from the soup and discard them.
2. Stir in fresh lemon juice; season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm in bowls topped with chopped parsley.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Classic Lentil Soup!

How to Serve Classic Lentil Soup

Classic Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a comforting dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf for dipping. The bread’s texture adds a nice contrast to the smooth soup.

Topped with Avocado

• Slice fresh avocado and place it on top of your lentil soup. This adds creaminess and healthy fats, making the dish even more satisfying.

With a Side Salad

• Serve your soup alongside a fresh garden salad. The crunchy vegetables will complement the softness of the lentils beautifully.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top of the soup enhances its flavor. It also gives the dish an elegant touch.

With Lemon Wedges

• Serve lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup. This brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro on top before serving. This not only adds color but also enhances the aroma.

How to Perfect Classic Lentil Soup

Creating the perfect Classic Lentil Soup involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition, making your soup taste better.
• Sauté Longer: Sautéing aromatics longer allows their flavors to develop fully, creating a richer base for your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for a personalized touch.
• Choose Quality Broth: A good vegetable broth can make all the difference in depth of flavor; homemade is best if possible.
• Control Thickness: If your soup gets too thick, add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a bit after cooking can deepen its flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Lentil Soup

Pairing side dishes with Classic Lentil Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the flavors of lentils while providing a satisfying crunch.
2. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies make for a hearty side that matches well with soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies adds earthy tones that enhance the overall meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: Lightly dressed quinoa salad provides additional protein and texture, making it a nutritious companion.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that balances out the richness of the lentil soup.
6. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips paired with hummus add fun texture and flavor contrasts while being easy to prepare.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides coolness that offsets the warmth of the soup perfectly.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add sweetness and fiber, complementing the savory notes of lentils beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few mistakes when preparing Classic Lentil Soup. Here are some common errors and tips on how to avoid them.

• Skipping the aromatics: Neglecting to properly sauté the onions, carrots, and celery can lead to a bland soup. Always start with this classic mirepoix for a flavorful base.
• Not rinsing lentils: Failing to rinse lentils can introduce dirt or debris. Always sort and rinse your lentils before cooking to ensure a clean soup.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Overlooking salt or pepper adjustments at the end can affect the overall taste. Taste your soup before serving and adjust as needed for the best flavor.
• Cooking lentils too long: Overcooking lentils results in mushy soup. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat once they are tender but still hold their shape.
• Forgetting lemon juice: Lemon juice adds brightness to the soup; skipping it can make it taste flat. Don’t forget this essential finishing touch for a vibrant flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing the container.

Freezing Classic Lentil Soup

• Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Classic Lentil Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid or plate, and heat in intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Classic Lentil Soup.

Can I add other vegetables to Classic Lentil Soup?

Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I make Classic Lentil Soup spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper during cooking for extra heat. Adjust according to your spice preference!

What type of lentils should I use?

Green or brown lentils work best for this recipe as they hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid red lentils as they tend to become mushy.

Is Classic Lentil Soup gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Lentil Soup is not only hearty and delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Enjoy it alone or pair it with bread for a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out!

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Classic Lentil Soup

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in a comforting bowl of Classic Lentil Soup, a delightful fusion of nutritious lentils and savory vegetables simmered in a rich broth. This hearty vegan soup is not only warm and satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or meal prep. The aromatic blend of spices adds depth to each spoonful, while the vibrant colors of fresh ingredients make it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Serve this soup with crusty bread for a fulfilling experience that warms you from the inside out.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 3 carrots (sliced)
• 2 stalks celery (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups dry green lentils (sorted and rinsed)
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 3–4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. 2. Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional few minutes.
3. 3. Add minced garlic and spices; sauté briefly to enhance flavors.
4. 4. Mix in lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and water; bring to a boil and then simmer until lentils are tender (20-30 minutes).
5. 5. Finish with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg