Classic lentil soup is a cozy and nourishing dish that warms both the body and spirit. Packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s easy to make and perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal after a long day or a comforting bowl on a chilly evening, this soup always hits the spot.
Why Make This Recipe
Making classic lentil soup is not just about enjoying a delicious meal; it’s also about embracing the benefits of lentils. They are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. This soup is budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and can be made in large batches, making it perfect for meal prep. Plus, it’s entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
How to Prepare Classic Lentil Soup
Follow these easy steps to create a warm and satisfying bowl of classic lentil soup.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 3 carrots (sliced)
- 2 stalks celery (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 bay leaves
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups dry green lentils (sorted and rinsed)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 3-4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Steps:
- 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. Include the carrots and celery and sauté for 1 minute. Next, add the tomato paste, mixing it well with the vegetables. Sauté for an additional 2 to 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Spices: Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, cumin, bay leaves, and black pepper to the pot. Mix well and sauté for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Simmer: Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and 3 cups of water to the pot. Stir everything well and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the lentils are tender. If the soup becomes too thick, add the extra cup of water as needed.
- Finishing Touches: Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Add the lemon juice and mix well. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Serve warm, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
How to Serve Classic Lentil Soup
Enjoy your classic lentil soup on its own or as part of a larger meal. It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of yogurt on top.
How to Store Classic Lentil Soup
Leftover classic lentil soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in individual servings. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Tips to Make Classic Lentil Soup Perfectly
- Sort the Lentils: Always rinse and sort lentils before cooking to remove any debris or small stones.
- Add More Veggies: For added nutrition, toss in other vegetables like spinach, kale, or potatoes.
- Adjust the Thickness: Feel free to adjust the water or broth based on your preferred soup consistency. You can process a portion of the soup for a creamier texture if desired.
Variations
- Spicy Lentil Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Curried Lentil Soup: Stir in curry powder instead of Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
- Mediterranean Style: Mix in spinach and replace part of the broth with coconut milk for a rich twist.
FAQ
1. Do I need to soak lentils before cooking?
No, lentils do not require soaking like other legumes. They can be rinsed and cooked directly.
2. Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Red lentils cook faster and will become mushy.
3. Is it okay to add meat to this soup?
Certainly! You can include diced chicken or sausage for extra protein. Just add it at the beginning with the aromatics.
Enjoy making this classic lentil soup and share it with family and friends for a comforting meal that satisfies the soul!
PrintClassic Lentil Soup
A cozy and nourishing classic lentil soup packed with rich flavors, perfect for any time of year.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 3 carrots (sliced)
- 2 stalks celery (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 bay leaves
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups dry green lentils (sorted and rinsed)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 3–4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. Include the carrots and celery and sauté for 1 minute. Next, add the tomato paste, mixing it well with the vegetables. Sauté for an additional 2 to 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, cumin, bay leaves, and black pepper to the pot. Mix well and sauté for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and 3 cups of water to the pot. Stir everything well and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the lentils are tender. If the soup becomes too thick, add the extra cup of water as needed.
- Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Add the lemon juice and mix well. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve warm, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Notes
For added nutrition, consider adding other vegetables like spinach or kale. Adjust the thickness based on your desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lentil soup, vegan soup, healthy soup, comfort food