Pin this A hearty, comforting soup loaded with lentils, carrots, and celery, this dish is perfect for chilly days because it is budget-friendly and full of flavor. It is an easy recipe that comes together with simple ingredients found in most pantries.
I remember the first chilly evening I prepared this soup for my family: it instantly warmed us up and became a favorite comfort dish. Preparing it together made the kitchen smell wonderful, and everyone looked forward to sitting down with a steaming bowl.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing the vegetables
- Onion: 1 large, diced
- Carrots: 3 medium, peeled and diced
- Celery: 3 stalks, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Lentils: 1 1/2 cups (300 g) dried brown or green, rinsed
- Vegetable broth: 6 cups (1.5 L)
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (400 g), with juice (optional for extra depth)
- Bay leaf: 1
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
- Smoked paprika: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill: 2 tablespoons chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges: For serving (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add garlic:
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add lentils and liquids:
- Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (if using), bay leaf, cumin, thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Finish and season:
- Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Blend or serve:
- For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, or leave it chunky as desired.
- Garnish and serve:
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or dill, and serve with lemon wedges.
Pin this This lentil soup has become a staple in our home during winter weekends. We love gathering around the table to share warm bowls and stories, making it a truly special meal.
Make It Your Own
Add diced potatoes, spinach, or kale for more bulk and nutrition, or serve with crusty bread for a wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions
Top each bowl with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for brightness or a drizzle of olive oil for richness.
Nutrition Info
Each serving contains approximately 285 calories, 5 g fat, 45 g carbohydrates, and 15 g protein. It is vegetarian, vegan, and high in fiber.
Pin this This soup is best enjoyed fresh but is even more delicious the next day. Keep leftovers refrigerated for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Recipe FAQs
- → What lentils work best for this dish?
Brown or green lentils hold their shape well during simmering and offer a pleasant texture suited for this soup.
- → Can I make the soup creamier?
Yes, partially pureeing the soup with an immersion blender creates a creamier texture without adding dairy.
- → What spices enhance the flavor?
Ground cumin, dried thyme, and smoked paprika contribute warmth and depth to the savory base.
- → How long should I simmer the soup?
Simmer for about 30-35 minutes until lentils and vegetables become tender and meld flavors harmoniously.
- → Are there suggested garnishes?
Fresh parsley or dill and a squeeze of lemon brighten the flavors and complement the earthy ingredients.