Ingredients:

• 200 g green or brown lentils (about 1 cup)
• 2 leeks, cut into fine rings
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 potato, peeled and cut into small cubes
• 1 liter vegetable broth (about 4 1/4 cups)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp sweet paprika powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Begin by washing and cutting all the vegetables. Slice the leeks into fine rings, peel and slice the carrots, dice the onion, chop the garlic, and cut the potato into small cubes.
• Rinse the lentils under cold water and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
• Add the leeks and carrots to the pot, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Paste and Spices

• Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Add 1 teaspoon of thyme and 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika powder, mixing them with the vegetables to coat evenly.

Step 4: Add Lentils and Broth

• Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the cubed potatoes.
• Pour in 1 liter of vegetable broth, making sure everything is well submerged in the liquid.
• Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Cook the Soup

• Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
• Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.
• Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If needed, add a little more vegetable broth or water if the soup becomes too thick.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of thyme or paprika, depending on your preference.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Once the soup is done, turn off the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
• For an optional garnish, sprinkle fresh parsley over the soup before serving.
• Serve the soup hot with crusty bread, a dollop of vegan yogurt, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips:

• Use Different Lentils: This recipe works well with both green and brown lentils, but you can also experiment with red lentils for a creamier texture. Keep in mind that red lentils cook faster, so you may need to reduce the cooking time.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to customize the soup by adding more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it Creamy: For a creamier soup, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot. This gives the soup a thicker texture while still maintaining some chunkiness.
• Enhance the Flavor: For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of soy sauce.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 12g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Sugar: 7g

Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on the brand of ingredients and exact measurements.

FAQs:

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   • Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep. Store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat and serve!
2. Can I use canned lentils?
   • While this recipe calls for dried lentils, you can substitute them with canned lentils. If using canned lentils, reduce the cooking time to about 10-15 minutes since they are already cooked.
3. What can I serve with lentil soup?
   • Lentil soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad. You can also serve it with pita bread or rice for a more filling meal.
4. Is this soup gluten-free?
   • Yes, this lentil vegetable soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free vegetable broth. Always check product labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   • Absolutely! Sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils and vegetables are tender.

Conclusion: This hearty lentil vegetable soup is not only packed with flavors but also loaded with essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal for any time of the year. The combination of tender lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a soup that is both comforting and nourishing. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or as a healthy lunch, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a slice of your favorite bread for a delightful, filling meal.