Cozy Classic Lentil Soup: A Family-Friendly Bowl of Comfort
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Classic Lentil Soup to wrap you in a cozy embrace on a chilly day. Packed with protein, fiber, and wholesome vegetables, this soup is not only healthy , it’s also incredibly easy to make in just about 35 minutes! Your family will love this heartwarming dish that brings everyone to the table.
The Beauty of Homemade Soup
Imagine the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic wafting through your kitchen, drawing everyone in with promises of a delicious meal. This Classic Lentil Soup not only fills your belly but also fills your home with love and warmth. It’s the perfect dish to bring family and friends together, making it a staple in any home. Plus, the best part? You probably have most of the ingredients on hand!
Whipping Up Your Classic Lentil Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups dried brown lentils
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 (14 ounce or 400 ml) can diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- Salt to taste
Directions:
- Start by coating the bottom of a large pot with the olive oil and placing it over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sweat these lovely veggies for about 5 minutes, stirring often until they start to soften up.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it fills your kitchen with its aromatic goodness.
- Stir in the vegetable broth, lentils, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf. Raise the heat and bring this vibrant mix to a boil.
- Once boiling, lower the heat and let it gently simmer for about 25 minutes. Give it a stir every now and then, adding water if it gets too thick. The lentils should be almost done but slightly firm at this stage.
- Now, add in the diced tomatoes and let the soup continue simmering for another 5 to 10 minutes until the lentils are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Remove the pot from heat and fish out the bay leaf. Stir in the red wine vinegar and season with salt to taste.
- Ladle your soup into bowls and get ready to enjoy!
How to Delight in Your Lentil Soup
Serve this soup warm with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, or alongside a simple side salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for a family dinner or as a cozy lunch to warm your spirits.
Keeping Your Soup Fresh
Any leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to savor it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to leave some room in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Tips for the Perfect Classic Lentil Soup
- Feel free to customize the veggies! Spinach or kale can be wonderful additions.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce.
- If you like a creamier soup, blend part of it with an immersion blender before serving.
Fun Variations to Try
Mix things up with different lentil types! While brown lentils are my go-to, green or red lentils can provide unique textures and flavors. You can also throw in some chopped sausage or bacon for a heartier version, or go fully vegan by sticking with the basics.
Common Questions
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, you can! Just rinse them and add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking since they’re already cooked.What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
Water can work in a pinch, but you’ll miss the depth of flavor. If you have it, try using chicken broth for a different twist.How do I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when cooking, adjusting according to your taste!
This Classic Lentil Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s comfort in a bowl that brings friends and family together. Make it a part of your cooking routine and watch as it warms hearts and bellies alike!
Print
Cozy Classic Lentil Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and comforting Classic Lentil Soup packed with protein, fiber, and wholesome vegetables, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups dried brown lentils
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 (14 ounce or 400 ml) can diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Coat the bottom of a large pot with olive oil and heat over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sweat for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add vegetable broth, lentils, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add diced tomatoes and simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Remove bay leaf, stir in red wine vinegar, and season with salt to taste.
- Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
Notes
Serve warm with crusty bread or a salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg