Description
Rustic Lentil and Carrot Soup
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 large carrots, sliced
1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
6 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Crusty bread for serving
Directions
Sauté Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add Carrots and Spices:
Stir in carrots, cumin, smoked paprika, and rosemary. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
Incorporate Lentils and Broth:
Add lentils, vegetable broth, and the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Simmer Until Tender:
Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils and carrots are tender. Stir occasionally.
Season and Serve:
Remove the bay leaf and rosemary sprigs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Calories: ~250 kcal per serving
#LentilSoup #ComfortFood #HealthyEating #RusticRecipes #SoupSeason
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect soup every time. First, ensure all vegetables are uniformly chopped for even cooking. Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven. Sauté the onions and garlic until soft but not browned. Add the carrots and spices, stirring to coat them in the oil and toast the spices for 30 seconds to unlock their flavor. Pour in the rinsed lentils and broth, then add the bay leaf and rosemary sprigs. Bring to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce to the gentlest simmer. Cover with the lid slightly ajar. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, checking at 25 minutes for doneness. Lentils should be tender but not mushy. Finally, season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple additions. Serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese adds a bright finish. For a textural contrast, top with homemade croutons or a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a lemony vinaigrette to complement the soup’s earthy flavors.
How-to Summary
In short: Sauté onions and garlic. Add carrots and spices. Stir in lentils and broth. Simmer for 25-30 minutes until tender. Season and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use red lentils instead? Yes, but red lentils cook faster and break down more, creating a thicker, creamier soup. Adjust simmer time to 15-20 minutes.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much.
Is this soup freezer-friendly? Absolutely. Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes. Sauté aromatics first for best flavor, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
My soup is too thick. How can I fix it? Simply stir in additional vegetable broth or water until your desired consistency is reached. Reheat gently after adjusting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not rinsing the lentils, which can leave behind debris.
- Boiling the soup rapidly after adding lentils, which can cause them to break apart unevenly.
- Underseasoning. Lentils need ample salt; add at the end and taste carefully.
- Overcooking, which turns lentils and carrots mushy. Aim for tender but intact.
- Forgetting to remove the bay leaf and rosemary stems before serving.
Conclusion
This Rustic Lentil and Carrot Soup is the epitome of wholesome, satisfying comfort food. It’s incredibly forgiving, nutritious, and packed with deep, earthy flavors that develop with minimal effort. Master the simple steps, heed the advice on common pitfalls, and you’ll have a versatile recipe that becomes a reliable staple in your kitchen. It’s a perfect example of how a few humble ingredients can transform into something truly nourishing and delicious.