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hearty lentil soup

Hearty Lentil Soup

Table of Contents

Cozy up with a bowl of this nourishing lentil soup, brimming with earthy flavors and wholesome goodness. Packed with protein-packed lentils, colorful veggies, and aromatic spices, this soup is a hearty delight that warms both body and soul. A touch of fresh lemon juice and herbs adds a vibrant twist 🍋🌱. Whether it’s a chilly day or you simply crave a comforting meal, this recipe is your go-to for a bowl of love and comfort. Ladle it up and savor every spoonful! 🍲❤️

Ingredients:

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups vegetable broth or water
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh lemon juice (optional, for serving)
Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Directions:

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and ground turmeric to the pot. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
Add Lentils and Liquid: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and vegetable broth or water to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Add Bay Leaf and Simmer: Drop in the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Season and Adjust: Once the lentils are cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf and discard.
Blend (Optional): For a creamier consistency, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This step is optional; you can leave the soup as is if you prefer a chunkier texture.
Serve: Ladle the hot lentil soup into bowls. Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over each serving if desired, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.