Description
Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
2 medium carrots, diced
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup fresh spinach leaves
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
Add the Spices:
Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
Build the Soup Base:
Add lentils, carrots, potatoes, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Pour in vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper.
Simmer:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until lentils and vegetables are tender.
Add Spinach:
Stir in fresh spinach leaves during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Let them wilt into the soup.
Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4–5
Calories: ~200 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect soup every time. First, ensure all vegetables are diced to a uniform size for even cooking. After rinsing the lentils, check for any small stones. When sautéing the aromatics, keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic. Toasting the spices is a crucial step—stir constantly for the full minute to unlock their full flavor. When adding the broth, scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate any flavorful bits. During the simmer, keep the lid slightly ajar to prevent boiling over. The soup is ready when the lentils are tender but not mushy. Finally, add the spinach off the heat; the residual warmth is enough to wilt it perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile soup pairs beautifully with several sides. For a classic combination, serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast. For added freshness, top with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice. To make it a heartier meal, serve it over a scoop of cooked quinoa or brown rice.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this soup by sautéing onion and garlic, toasting spices, then adding lentils, vegetables, and broth to simmer until tender. Finish by wilting in fresh spinach just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of lentil?
Yes, but cooking times will vary. Red lentils cook faster (20-25 mins) and will break down, creating a thicker soup. Brown or green lentils hold their shape well and are a good direct substitute.
How can I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as written with vegetable broth, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check your broth labels to confirm.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Sauté the aromatics and toast the spices in a pan first for best flavor, then add everything except the spinach to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add spinach 30 minutes before serving.
The soup is too thick. How can I fix it?
Simply thin it with additional vegetable broth or water until your desired consistency is reached. Adjust seasoning after adding more liquid.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not rinsing the lentils: Always rinse them thoroughly to remove any dust or debris.
- Overcooking the garlic: Add it just after the onion softens to prevent a bitter, burnt taste.
- Skipping the spice toast: This brief step is essential for deepening the flavor profile.
- Adding spinach too early: Adding it at the end preserves its color, texture, and nutrients.
- Underseasoning: Lentils need ample seasoning. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
Conclusion
This Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup is a nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying meal that is simple to prepare. Its flexibility with ingredients and cooking methods makes it a reliable staple for any cook. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a perfect pot of comforting, plant-based goodness that will delight your family and guests. Enjoy this wholesome dish as a cornerstone of your healthy eating routine.