A delicious and nutritious Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup packed with vegetables and seasoned with aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup water or 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 carrots (about 1 cup), diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14oz) diced tomatoes with juices, or 2-3 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1 lb. baby potatoes, diced
- 1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 6 cups water or low-sodium broth, plus more as needed
- 2 handfuls of baby spinach or kale
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
- Mineral salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the water or olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the paprika, curry powder, and cumin. Sauté for an additional 1 minute, or until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Soup:
- Add the green beans, diced tomatoes, diced potatoes, lentils, and 6 cups of water or low-sodium broth.
- Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the Greens:
- About 5 minutes before the soup is done, stir in the baby spinach or kale.
- If the soup is too thick, add more water as needed, up to 1 cup.
- Add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
- Serve hot, paired with homemade vegan cornbread, vegan naan, or artisan bread.
Enjoy this hearty and comforting lentil and vegetable soup with your loved ones!
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Cooking Tips:
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more or less paprika, cumin, and curry powder.
- For a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes and lentils with the back of a spoon.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Lentils: High in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Spinach/Kale: Packed with vitamins A, C, K, and iron.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes (ensure all ingredients are gluten-free)
- Dairy-Free: Yes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a hearty and nutritious meal, perfect for any time of the year.
- Packed with a variety of vegetables and lentils, providing a rich source of nutrients.
- Easy to make and customizable with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Conclusion:
Thank you for trying this Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup recipe. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more delicious recipes. Happy cooking!