Best 2 The Best Lentil Soup Recipes

**Lentil Soup: A Hearty and Wholesome Comfort Food**

Lentil soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries across various cultures. Made with lentils, vegetables, and broth, this hearty and wholesome soup is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Lentils are a rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and folate. Combined with a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes, lentil soup becomes a nutritional powerhouse. This comforting dish is often seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, such as cumin, coriander, and paprika, adding depth of flavor and warmth. Whether you prefer a traditional or a more creative take on lentil soup, there are numerous variations to explore. From classic European recipes to Middle Eastern-inspired soups and even vegan and gluten-free options, lentil soup offers something for everyone. So, gather your ingredients, and let's embark on a culinary journey to create the perfect bowl of lentil soup that will warm your soul and nourish your body.

Let's cook with our recipes!

BEST LENTIL SOUP

Best Lentil Soup image

This simple vegan lentil soup recipe comes together quickly with mostly pantry ingredients. Be sure to have your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking! Recipe yields four large bowls of soup, or six more modest servings.

Provided by Cookie and Kate

Categories Soup

Time 55m

Number Of Ingredients 16

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow or white onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, lightly drained
1 cup brown or green lentils, picked over and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt, more to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup chopped fresh collard greens or kale, tough ribs removed
1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice (1/2 to 1 medium lemon), to taste

Steps:

Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. One-fourth cup olive oil may seem like a lot, but it adds a lovely richness and heartiness to this nutritious soup.
Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and carrot and cook, stirring often, until the onion has softened and is turning translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder and thyme. Cook until fragrant while stirring constantly, about 30 seconds. Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes, stirring often, in order to enhance their flavor.
Pour in the lentils, broth and the water. Add 1 teaspoon salt and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Raise heat and bring the mixture to a boil, then partially cover the pot and reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
Transfer 2 cups of the soup to a blender. Securely fasten the lid, protect your hand from steam with a tea towel placed over the lid, and purée the soup until smooth. Pour the puréed soup back into the pot. (Or, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup.)
Add the chopped greens and cook for 5 more minutes, or until the greens have softened to your liking. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Taste and season with more salt, pepper and/or lemon juice until the flavors really sing. For spicier soup, add another pinch or two of red pepper flakes.
Serve while hot. Leftovers will keep well for about 4 days in the refrigerator, or can be frozen for several months (just defrost before serving).

Nutrition Facts : Calories 367 calories, Sugar 10.8 g, Sodium 1375.5 mg, Fat 15.5 g, SaturatedFat 2.2 g, TransFat 0 g, Carbohydrate 47.8 g, Fiber 10.8 g, Protein 14.5 g, Cholesterol 0 mg

BEST EVER LENTIL SOUP

Best Ever Lentil Soup image

This has to be the easist and best lentil soup I've had. I just love it. I got this recipe from a friend.

Provided by mandikaake

Categories Lentil

Time 40m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

2 cups red lentils, washed
8 cups water or 8 cups broth
1 large onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 carrot, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 lemon, juice of
3 tablespoons Knorr chicken bouillon

Steps:

Put water and lentils in large pot. Bring to boil and then simmer for 20 minutes stirring occasionally, till lentils are tender.
When this is almost done, saute onion, garlic and carrot till onion is slightly golden. Add this to the soup after it has simmered for 20 minutes Also add the spices and boullion and simmer for 5 minutes.
Take off heat and add the lemon juice.
Stir and serve.
We love to eat this with pita bread and have dates for dessert. The perfect meal!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 288, Fat 6.4, SaturatedFat 1, Cholesterol 0.4, Sodium 576.9, Carbohydrate 43.1, Fiber 7.7, Sugar 2.3, Protein 16.9

Tips:

Use a variety of lentils. This will give your soup a more complex flavor and texture. Lentils don't need to be soaked before cooking, so they're a great time-saver.
Sauté your vegetables before adding them to the soup. This will help them to develop their flavor and add a nice depth to the soup.
Use a good quality broth. This will make a big difference in the flavor of your soup. You can use chicken, beef, or vegetable broth, depending on your preference.
Add plenty of spices. Lentils have a mild flavor, so they can handle a lot of spices. Some good options include cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder.
Let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the lentils to become tender.
Serve the soup with your favorite toppings. Some good options include bread, crackers, yogurt, and cheese.

Conclusion:

Lentil soup is a delicious, healthy, and affordable meal that is perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give this lentil soup a try!