Best 5 Southwestern Vegetarian Lentil Soup Recipes

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**Indulge in a Flavorful Culinary Journey with Southwestern Vegetarian Lentil Soup: A Symphony of Tastes and Textures**

Embark on a savory adventure with Southwestern Vegetarian Lentil Soup, a delectable dish that tantalizes taste buds with its vibrant blend of flavors and textures. This hearty and wholesome soup showcases the humble lentil, transformed into a protein-packed and fiber-rich protagonist. Accompanied by a colorful cast of vegetables, including sweet carrots, crisp celery, and tender zucchini, the soup is a symphony of textures that delight the palate. Infused with an aromatic blend of spices, including cumin, chili powder, and paprika, each spoonful promises a warm and comforting experience. This culinary masterpiece is not only a feast for the senses but also a nourishing and satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick and easy lunch. In this article, we present a collection of Southwestern Vegetarian Lentil Soup recipes, each offering unique variations to suit diverse preferences and dietary needs. From a classic stovetop version to a convenient slow-cooker adaptation, and even a vegan-friendly rendition, these recipes cater to a wide range of culinary preferences. So, prepare to embark on a flavor-filled journey as we delve into the world of Southwestern Vegetarian Lentil Soup.

Let's cook with our recipes!

SOUTHWESTERN VEGETARIAN LENTIL SOUP



Southwestern Vegetarian Lentil Soup image

Do you enjoy Southwest flavors? Do you enjoy healthy cooking? Then this soup is for you! This hearty, flavorful soup will warm you up on a cold dreary day. It has similar flavors to chicken tortilla soup. Great as a gift too, for anyone who enjoys southwest flavors or someone who is Vegetarian. Bring it over with toppings for an extra special treat. You could also eat this over cooked brown rice.

Provided by Engrossed

Categories     < 4 Hours

Time 1h15m

Yield 12 cups, 8-12 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 31

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 white onion, chopped
1 carrot, peeled and diced
1 -2 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon red chili powder (I used New Mexican)
2 teaspoons paprika (I used smoked Spanish)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground coriander
2 teaspoons onion powder
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
8 cups water (add vegetable bouillon at end so the salt does not keep lentils from cooking) or 8 cups vegetable broth (add vegetable bouillon at end so the salt does not keep lentils from cooking)
1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained (may use 2 cans)
1 cup brown lentils, picked clean and rinsed
6 -8 vegetable bouillon cubes (only if using water)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen)
2 zucchini, diced (about 2 cups)
1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, undrained
1 (2 1/2 ounce) can black olives, drained and sliced
6 roma tomatoes, chopped- use seeds and juice (about 3 cups)
3 -4 tablespoons fresh lime juice or 3 -4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
salt, to taste
sour cream
cheese, shredded
green onion, chopped
cilantro, chopped
hot pepper sauce
lime wedge, fresh
tortilla chips

Steps:

  • In a large pot, heat oil, sauté onion, carrot, and jalapeno, until soft, about 10 minutes.
  • Add garlic and spices and sauté 2 minutes.
  • Stir in water or broth and scrape any spices that stuck to the pan.
  • Stir in green chilies and lentils. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, covered, for about 40 minutes until lentils are tender.
  • Uncover and stir in bouillon cubes, if using, and sugar.
  • Stir in spinach, zucchini, corn and olives. Bring to a boil and cook until zucchini is tender about 5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat, stir in tomatoes, lime or lemon juice and salt to taste.
  • Serve with desired toppings.

THE BEST LENTIL SOUP



The Best Lentil Soup image

Brown lentils are the star of this dish. To boost flavor, we used a classic mirepoix-onion, celery and carrot - as well as thyme, bay and oregano for an herby finish. We found the fresh lemon juice and parsley at the end brightened up the soup and added a nice pop of color.

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories     main-dish

Time 1h30m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 15

3 tablespoons olive oil
3 medium carrots, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
1 medium onion, diced
1 large celery stalk (about 2 ounces), cut into 1/4-inch pieces
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 large clove garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups dried brown lentils
4 cups vegetable stock
7 sprigs thyme, leaves stripped (about 1 teaspoon leaves)
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon lemon zest, plus the juice of 1/2 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves, plus more for garnish, roughly chopped

Steps:

  • Heat the oil in a large heavy-bottom pot over medium-high heat. Add the carrot, onion, celery and 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are starting to caramelize and take on a dark brown color, 8 to 10 minutes (this step is important as it will add tons of flavor to your soup!).
  • Stir in the tomato paste and garlic and cook, scraping up the brown bits, until the garlic is fragrant and slightly softened, 1 to 2 minutes. Add in the lentils, stock, 4 cups water, thyme, bay leaf, oregano, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, 2 teaspoons salt and a generous amount of black pepper and stir to combine. Bring to a boil then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook until the lentils are softened with just a bit of bite, 25 to 30 minutes.
  • Remove the bay leaf. Puree 2 1/2 cups of the soup in a blender until smooth then stir back into the pot. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley. Ladle into bowls and garnish with more parsley.

VEGAN LENTIL SOUP



Vegan Lentil Soup image

Tender broccoli rabe adds a welcome pop of green (and a generous dose of fiber!) to this lentil-and-tomato soup spiced with coriander and cumin.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Soups, Stews & Stocks     Soup Recipes

Time 1h15m

Number Of Ingredients 11

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1/2 cup chopped shallot
1/2 cup chopped carrot
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 cup dried French lentils
1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
4 cups chopped broccoli rabe
2 teaspoons red-wine vinegar

Steps:

  • Heat oil in a pot over medium-high. Add shallot, carrot, celery, cumin, coriander, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, until vegetables have softened, 4 to 6 minutes.
  • Stir in lentils, tomatoes, and 4 1/2 cups water. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, partially covered, until lentils are tender, 40 to 45 minutes.
  • Stir in broccoli rabe (if soup is too thick, add up to 1/2 cup water); cook until tender, about 3 minutes more. Stir in red-wine vinegar, season with salt and pepper, and serve, with more pepper and a drizzle of oil.

SOUTHWEST BARLEY & LENTIL SOUP



Southwest Barley & Lentil Soup image

My family makes lentil soup every new year for good luck. My mom has been making it since I was little. Over time, we've tweaked it so that all our family and friends love it. -Kristen Heigl, Staten Island, New York

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 1h10m

Yield 12 servings (4-1/2 quarts).

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 package (14 ounces) smoked kielbasa or Polish sausage, halved lengthwise and sliced
4 medium carrots, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 package (16 ounces) dried brown lentils, rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
3/4 cup medium pearl barley
1/2 cup frozen corn
10 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

Steps:

  • In a 6-qt. stockpot, heat oil over medium heat. Add kielbasa; cook and stir 6-8 minutes or until browned. Remove from pot with a slotted spoon., Add carrots and onion to same pot; cook and stir 6-8 minutes or until tender. Add garlic and cumin; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in kielbasa and remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 35-45 minutes or until lentils and barley are tender, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 366 calories, Fat 11g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 22mg cholesterol, Sodium 904mg sodium, Carbohydrate 48g carbohydrate (7g sugars, Fiber 17g fiber), Protein 21g protein.

HEARTY VEGETABLE LENTIL SOUP



Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup image

My mother has diabetes, so I often prepare this dish for her. I wanted a hearty soup that hits the spot on cold autumn nights, so I paired the lentils with turkey bacon and a handful of spices. -Nicole Hopping, Pinole, California.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 1h

Yield 6 servings (1-1/2 quarts).

Number Of Ingredients 12

6 bacon strips, chopped
1 pound red potatoes (about 3 medium), chopped
2 medium carrots, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
6 garlic cloves, minced
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1-1/2 cups dried lentils, rinsed
4 cups chicken stock

Steps:

  • In a large saucepan, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels. Discard drippings, reserving 1 tablespoon in pan. Add potatoes, carrots and onion; cook and stir 6-8 minutes or until carrots and onion are tender. Add garlic and seasonings; cook 1 minute longer., Add lentils and stock; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 30-35 minutes or until lentils and potatoes are tender. Top each serving with bacon.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 314 calories, Fat 6g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 10mg cholesterol, Sodium 708mg sodium, Carbohydrate 47g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 17g fiber), Protein 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

Tips:

  • Use a variety of lentils for a more complex flavor and texture. Lentils come in different colors, such as brown, green, and red, and each type has a slightly different flavor and cooking time. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite blend.
  • Add vegetables to your soup for extra nutrition and flavor. Some good options include carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchini. You can also add leafy greens, such as spinach or kale, near the end of cooking for a quick boost of nutrients.
  • Use vegetable broth or water instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian or vegan soup. If you're using water, you may want to add a little extra salt or other seasonings to taste.
  • Cook the soup until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Overcooked lentils will become mushy and lose their flavor.
  • Serve the soup with a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, yogurt, avocado, chopped cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips.

Conclusion:

Southwestern vegetarian lentil soup is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that's perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its blend of lentils, vegetables, and spices, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrition. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover lentils or vegetables. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy vegetarian meal, give this soup a try.

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