Easy Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting and nourishing meal, look no further than this easy Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup recipe. Originating from traditional rustic cuisine, lentil soup has been a beloved dish for centuries, known for its rich flavors and hearty texture. This homemade hearty lentil and vegetable soup from scratch not only warms the body but also satisfies the soul, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings or when you need a nutritious pick-me-up.

With protein-packed lentils and a vibrant medley of seasonal vegetables, this vegan Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup promises a delightful explosion of flavors in every spoonful. Whether you are a staunch vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this soup is a wholesome choice. Read on to learn more about how to create this hearty dish that can serve as a main meal or a comforting starter!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Serving Size: 6 servings

Ingredients

• For the Soup Base:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 bay leaf
• Main Ingredients:
  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For Garnishing:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Dash of lemon juice (optional)

Possible Ingredient Swaps:

• Use quinoa or barley instead of lentils for a different texture.
• For a gluten-free option, ensure all ingredients, especially broth and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
• Switch fresh vegetables according to season; zucchini, corn, and sweet potatoes can be great additions!
• If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in 1 cup of coconut milk towards the end of cooking.

Equipment List

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener (for diced tomatoes)
• Immersion blender (optional, for a smoother texture)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Wait until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and meld their flavors.
4. Season and Aromatize: Sprinkle in the dried thyme, ground cumin, and bay leaf, stirring to coat all the vegetables.
5. Incorporate Lentils: Gently fold in the rinsed lentils. Their earthy aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
6. Pour Broth and Tomatoes: Carefully pour in the vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes, stirring to combine thoroughly.
7. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for about 30-35 minutes. The lentils should be tender but not mushy.
8. Add Greens: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped spinach or kale. They will wilt quickly, adding a beautiful pop of green.
9. Season to Taste: Taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper as desired. Remember, the flavors will deepen as it cools!
10. Serve: Remove from heat and discard the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

Special Notes

Storage:

This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Allow it to cool before transferring to ensure freshness.

Reheating:

To reheat, simply place the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Make Ahead:

You can prepare the soup a day in advance. This allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even tastier dish the next day!

Troubleshooting:

If you find the soup too thick, add 1-2 cups of water or broth during reheating until reaching your preferred consistency. Want more heat? Consider sprinkling in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Variations and Customizations

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free!
• Protein Boost: Add 1 can of chickpeas or white beans for extra protein. Simply stir them in at the end, warming for about 5 minutes.
• Add Herbs: Fresh herbs, like basil or dill, can be stirred in just before serving for lifted freshness.
• Feeling Gourmet? Top with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt or a sprinkle of vegan cheese before serving for an indulgent finish.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 210 | Protein: 12g | Fat: 5g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fiber: 15g

Engaging Visual Details

This Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup is a feast for the senses. As you sauté the onions and garlic, the air fills with their aromatic embrace. When you add the lentils and broth, the colors of the vegetables contrast beautifully, creating a warm, inviting bowl of vibrant hues. Each serving should be thick and chunky, packed with tender vegetables and lentils that glisten under a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The first spoonful will reveal flavors that are deeply savory, with a subtle sweetness from the carrots and a freshness from the greens. To best capture these visuals, consider including step-by-step images or a video of the cooking process.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the information to create this easy Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start preparing a dish that will nourish both body and soul. This comforting soup is not only simple but also a versatile option that can be customized to your liking. Don’t forget to share your experiences! Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe, and feel free to share your version on Instagram by tagging us with MyDeliciousDish. Enjoy!