Classic Lentil Soup

This Classic Lentil Soup is a delightful blend of hearty lentils, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for any occasion, this warm vegan soup offers comfort and nutrition in every bowl. Whether enjoyed as a simple weeknight dinner or served at a gathering with friends, its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a standout dish in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this soup is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lentils, vegetables, and spices, this soup is not only delicious but also rich in protein and fiber.
• Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables to make it your own!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch that can be stored in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing simple ingredients, this recipe keeps costs low while delivering great taste.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing the Classic Lentil Soup requires just a few essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for making soups as they distribute heat evenly, ensuring everything cooks perfectly.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your efficiency in the kitchen.

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Ingredients

This 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.

For the Base

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

For Flavoring

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

For the Soup

• 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 dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent. Next, add the carrots and celery; sauté for 1 minute. Stir in the tomato paste until well mixed with the vegetables. Continue to sauté for an additional 2 to 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Spices

Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, cumin, bay leaves, and black pepper to the pot. Mix well and sauté for about 1 minute to toast the spices.

Step 3: Simmer

Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and 3 cups of water to the pot. Stir everything together before bringing it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to medium heat and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the lentils are tender; if desired consistency is too thick, add additional water as needed.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Remove bay leaves from the soup before serving. Add fresh lemon juice and stir well. Season with salt and pepper to taste if necessary.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm topped with freshly chopped parsley. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Classic Lentil Soup!

How to Serve Classic Lentil Soup

Classic Lentil Soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether served as a light lunch or a comforting dinner, this soup pairs beautifully with various accompaniments.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve warm crusty bread for dunking. A baguette or sourdough adds texture and flavor.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the soup with a refreshing green salad. Include mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for balance.

With Grated Cheese

• Top each bowl with grated cheese for a creamy finish. Try using vegan cheese for a fully plant-based option.

With Avocado Slices

• Add fresh avocado slices on top for creaminess. This boosts the nutrient content and adds healthy fats.

With Lemon Wedges

• Serve lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Classic Lentil Soup

To make your Classic Lentil Soup even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth elevate the flavor of your soup significantly.

• Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preference. Adding more cumin or paprika can change the flavor profile.

• Soak Lentils: Although not necessary, soaking lentils for an hour before cooking can help them cook faster and improve digestion.

• Blend for Creaminess: For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Lentil Soup

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

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the soup’s warmth perfectly.

2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes adds freshness.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional nutrients and flavors to your meal.

4. Potato Wedges: Crunchy baked potato wedges are satisfying and delicious alongside the soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice or grains, stuffed peppers add heartiness to your table.

6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: These provide a crunchy texture contrast to the smoothness of the soup.

7. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad offers a filling side that balances flavors well.

8. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch that pairs nicely with lentils.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Classic Lentil Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring the mirepoix: The mirepoix (onion, carrots, and celery) forms the flavor base of your soup. Skipping this step will lead to a bland dish.
• Not rinsing lentils: Rinsing lentils removes dirt and debris. Failing to do so can result in an unappetizing texture and taste.
• Overcooking or undercooking lentils: Cooking lentils too long can make them mushy, while not cooking them enough leaves them hard. Keep an eye on the simmering time.
• Forgetting seasoning: Seasoning at the end of cooking is crucial. Adding salt early can cause lentils to toughen. Taste and adjust before serving.
• Neglecting garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley add brightness and flavor. Skipping garnishes makes your soup look less appealing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Classic Lentil Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Classic Lentil Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered pot until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Classic Lentil Soup that many readers have.

Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes! While green lentils are great, you can experiment with brown or red lentils. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is Classic Lentil Soup vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike.

How can I customize my Classic Lentil Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients. You can also adjust spices based on your taste preferences.

What should I serve with Classic Lentil Soup?

This delicious soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Classic Lentil Soup is a warm, satisfying dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Its versatility allows for various customization options, making it suitable for everyone. Try this recipe today and enjoy the comforting goodness of homemade soup!