Description
Vegetarian Lentil Soup
A hearty soup loaded with nourishing veggies and fragrant herbs, perfect for a cozy meal. This vegetarian lentil soup is an easy one-pot wonder that fills your kitchen with the delightful aroma of thyme and marjoram. It’s budget-friendly, simple to make, and great for meal prep, keeping you warm and satisfied on those chilly days. Everyone, from the picky eaters to the health enthusiasts, will love this comforting bowl of goodness!
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
1½ cups cubed potatoes
2 carrots, chopped
½ cup dry green or brown lentils
½ tsp thyme
½ tsp marjoram
6 cups vegetable stock
⅓ cup shredded cheddar
2 tbsp sour cream
Directions:
1. Heat oil, sauté onion, garlic, and celery until softened.
2. Add potatoes, carrots, lentils, herbs, and broth. Simmer 30 min.
3. Stir in cheese and mix sour cream into a portion of the soup.
Prep Time: 10 min
Kcal: 478
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect soup every time. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and finely chopped celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This builds the flavor base.
Next, add the cubed potatoes, chopped carrots, dry lentils, thyme, and marjoram to the pot. Stir to coat the vegetables and lentils in the oil and herbs. Pour in the 6 cups of vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat. For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree about one-third of the soup. Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. In a small bowl, temper the sour cream by mixing a few spoonfuls of hot soup into it, then stir this mixture back into the main pot. This prevents curdling.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. For a fresh contrast, serve it with a simple side salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette. Garnish individual bowls with extra fresh herbs, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of additional cheddar cheese.
How-to Summary
Sauté onion, garlic, and celery. Add potatoes, carrots, lentils, herbs, and broth, then simmer for 30 minutes. Finish by stirring in cheddar cheese and blending a bit of the hot soup with the sour cream before mixing it in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown? Yes, but red lentils cook faster and break down more, creating a thicker, less chunky soup. Reduce simmering time to 15-20 minutes.
How can I make this soup vegan? Omit the cheddar cheese and sour cream. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and a vegan sour cream alternative or a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.
How long does it last in the fridge? Stored in an airtight container, the soup will keep for 4-5 days. The flavors often improve the next day.
Can I freeze this lentil soup? Absolutely. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a little water or broth if it has thickened.
My soup is too thick. How do I fix it? Simply stir in additional vegetable broth or water, 1/4 cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency when reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding the sour cream directly to the hot pot, as it can curdle. Always temper it first. Do not skip sautéing the initial vegetables, as this step develops crucial depth of flavor. Ensure you simmer the soup gently; a rapid boil can make the lentils mushy on the outside before they are fully cooked inside. Finally, remember to sort and rinse your lentils before use to remove any small stones or debris.
Conclusion
This vegetarian lentil soup is the epitome of wholesome, comforting cooking. It’s nutritious, economical, and incredibly forgiving, making it an ideal recipe for both weeknight dinners and meal preparation. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a cherished staple in your home kitchen, warming you from the inside out.