Luch & Dinner

Best Lentil Soup Recipe Ever – Freshly Ingredients

Name: Best Lentil Soup Recipe Ever – Freshly Ingredients
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and picked over; 1 large can; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups water; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow or white onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, peeled and diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon curry powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt, or 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 , to taste; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Charlotte Shapiro March 27, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins

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Before diving into the depths of the best lentil soup ever, let’s chat about what goes well alongside this delightful dish. I can already hear my taste buds singing with joy! Here are a few of my favorite pairing options to enhance your meal experience: Fresh Baguette, Green Salad, Grilled Cheese, Rice or Quinoa

What Is the Best Lentil Soup Ever?

Imagine a bowl of lentil soup filled with rich flavors and wholesome goodness. You’ll find tender lentils, vibrant veggies, and a robust broth that dances on your palate.

The tomatoes give a touch of sweetness, while spices offer a comforting warmth. It’s a symphony of deliciousness in every spoonful, inviting and cozy—exactly what soup should be.

Why Does This Recipe Work?

Simplicity: The ingredients are easy to find and prepare. This means you can whip up a pot without any hassle.
Flavor: The combination of spices, especially cumin and smoked paprika, creates depth. Each ingredient complements the others.
Nutrition: Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making this soup a satisfying meal. The added vegetables bring in vitamins and minerals.
Flexibility: You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your dietary needs or ingredient availability. You can omit or swap ingredients without losing that comforting essence.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Gathering your ingredients is half the adventure! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and picked over
1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, lightly drained
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups water
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow or white onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon curry powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt, or 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 (½ to 1 medium lemon), to taste
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky depth)
½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional, for warmth and complexity)

How to Make the Best Lentil Soup Ever?

This recipe is both inviting and simple. I’ll walk you through each step, ensuring you feel like a pro by the end. Ready? Let’s cook up some magic!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water. Check for any debris—it happens! Dice the onion, carrots, and garlic. Having everything prepped makes cooking seamless.

Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Carrots

Next, throw in the minced garlic and diced carrots. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for another 5 minutes. You’ll start to smell the warmth wafting through your kitchen.

Step 4: Introduce Spices

Now, it’s time for the spices! Sprinkle in the cumin, curry powder, thyme, salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes more, stirring constantly. This step is crucial; it really allows the spices to bloom and develop their flavors.

Step 5: Add Lentils and Liquids

Toss the rinsed lentils into the pot, along with the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and water. Stir well, bringing everything together. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Let your soup simmer for 25-30 minutes. This is where the magic happens! Stir occasionally. The lentils should become tender but not mushy.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the chopped collard greens or kale. They’ll wilt down beautifully in the hot soup. Add lemon juice to brighten the flavors and adjust the seasoning if needed. If using, sprinkle the smoked paprika and ginger for an extra layer of depth.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Your soup is ready! Ladle it into bowls and, if you’d like, top with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Get your bread ready for dipping!

Tips for a Fantastic Lentil Soup

Store your lentils: Check your pantry for lentils before starting. A fresh batch cooks better.
Customize: Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices. Add a bit of cayenne for heat or Italian seasoning for a twist.
Vegetable variety: Mix in other vegetables for added nutrition. Zucchini or bell peppers can be delicious additions.
Texture: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the mixture before serving.
Taste as you go: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices and acidity as you cook. Your palate is the best judge.

How to Store Leftovers?

Leftovers? No problem! First, let the soup cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for about 5 days.

If you want to store it longer, pop it in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to leave some room in the container for expansion!

Nutrition Information

A serving of this delightful soup provides you with a balanced meal. It’s high in fiber, packing in about 18 grams per cup. Each serving contains approximately:

Calories: 250
Protein: 14 grams
Fat: 8 grams
Carbohydrates: 35 grams
Fiber: 18 grams

It’s perfect for a wholesome meal any day of the week.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this delightful soup, here are a few ways to jazz it up:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds brightness.
A Dollop of Yogurt: For creaminess, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream. It balances the flavors and makes it feel a tad indulgent.
A Squeeze of Lime: If you love zest, a squeeze of lime over the top enhances the experience with a citrusy pop.
Croutons: Make your own croutons or add store-bought ones for a satisfying crunch.

Alternative Substitutes for Ingredients

Running low on an ingredient? Here are some great swaps:

Lentils: If you can’t find brown or green lentils, red lentils are a great alternative. They cook faster and create a creamier texture.
Vegetable broth: Don’t have broth? Use water and add a couple of vegetable bouillon cubes for flavor.
Collard greens or kale: You can substitute spinach or Swiss chard for a slightly different taste and texture.
Tomatoes: If you don’t have canned tomatoes, fresh diced tomatoes or sun dried tomatoes can work well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

In Conclusion

After making this soup, you might find yourself not only satisfied but possibly a bit obsessed. It truly encapsulates comfort food—hearty, nourishing, and full of flavor.

Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening, at a gathering with friends, or as meal prep for a busy week ahead, the best lentil soup ever is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

So, gather your ingredients, crank up those cooking skills, and get ready to enjoy a warm bowl of lentil magic. Here’s to good food and great company!

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Print Recipe

Best Lentil Soup Recipe Ever – Freshly Ingredients

Author: Charlotte Shapiro Cuisine: Mediterranean Courses: Luch & Dinner

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 55 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 250 kcal

Description

So, let’s set the scene. Picture this: You’ve had a long day, the weather is chilly, and you’re craving something that hugs you from the inside out. That’s when this lentil soup comes into play. It’s warm, nutritious, and downright delicious. Plus, lentils are packed with protein and fiber. They’re like tiny powerhouses of nutrition!

What makes this soup truly shine? It’s all about the careful balance of spices and the freshness of the ingredients. This recipe has stood the test of time. I’ve made it countless times, and every bowl brings satisfaction, warmth, and even a few compliments from friends and family.