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–+ servings
Best Lentil Soup

Best Lentil Soup for a Cozy, Hearty Dinner Delight

This Best Lentil Soup is a comforting, budget-friendly dish that’s packed with nutrition and flavor, perfect for chilly nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Feel free to substitute with any neutral oil.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
  • 6 cloves Garlic Garlic powder can work in a pinch.
  • 3 Carrots, finely chopped Swap with parsnips for a different twist.
  • 3 cups Celery, finely chopped Any similar vegetable can be a good substitute.
  • 2 teaspoons Salt Adjust to taste as you go.
  • 1 pound Lentils, picked and rinsed Brown or green lentils hold their shape best.
  • 1 can (15-ounce) Diced Tomatoes Use fresh tomatoes for a more vibrant flavor.
  • 6 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth Homemade broth is always a great option!
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Coriander Cumin can substitute for a different flavor profile.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cumin Can be omitted for milder taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper White pepper would work as an alternative.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Allspice Feel free to omit for a simpler taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Ginger Fresh ginger is a fantastic substitute.
  • 2 teaspoons Lemon Juice Juice from 1/2 lemon.
For Serving
  • Crusty Bread Perfect for dipping.
  • Fresh Salad A light side to balance the soup.

Equipment

  • Large Pot

Method
 

How to Make Best Lentil Soup
  1. Prepare Ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces for even cooking.
  2. Rinse Lentils: Thoroughly rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any dust.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, and spices. Mix well and bring to a boil.
  5. Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
  6. Season and Finish: Taste and season with salt and additional pepper. Stir in lemon juice right before serving.
  7. Optional Creaminess: Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture, then return it to the pot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 15gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

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