This hearty vegetable and lentil soup is a perfect blend of fresh vegetables, savory lentils, and aromatic spices. It’s a comforting and nutritious dish, ideal for a cozy meal.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Olive oil, for frying
- 1-2 tablespoons butter
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 2 potatoes, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 leek, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups (400 ml) vegetable broth
- 6 cups (1 liter) water
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups (400 g) lentils
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Bread, for serving
- Additional olive oil, for drizzling
- Red pepper, to taste
Directions
- Sauté Onion:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add chopped celery, carrot, potatoes, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic.
- Stir well and cook for 7-10 minutes.
- Add Leek:
- Mix in the chopped leek and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- Add Flour:
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly.
- Add Liquids:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and water, stirring well to combine.
- Season and Add Lentils:
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add lentils and mix well.
- Cook Soup:
- Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Prepare Bread:
- Drizzle slices of bread with olive oil and sprinkle with red pepper.
- Bake in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes until crispy.
- Prepare Garnish:
- In a small bowl, mix chopped parsley, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and red pepper.
- Serve:
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with the parsley mixture.
- Enjoy with the crispy bread on the side.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the soup hot with crispy bread on the side.
- Garnish with extra parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more or less salt and pepper.
- Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to cook the lentils until they are tender but not mushy.
Nutritional Benefits
- Lentils: High in protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
- Vegetables: Provide a variety of vitamins and nutrients.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats and antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: Yes, if butter is substituted with additional olive oil.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a hearty and nutritious meal.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for a cozy and comforting dinner.
Conclusion
Enjoy this hearty vegetable and lentil soup for a delicious and comforting meal. It’s packed with nutrients and flavors, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Soup
1. Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
- Yes, you can use canned lentils. Drain and rinse them before adding to the soup. Reduce the cooking time as canned lentils are already cooked.
2. What type of lentils are best for this recipe?
- Brown or green lentils work best as they hold their shape well during cooking. Red lentils can be used but will become softer and more mushy.
3. Can I freeze the soup?
- Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. How do I reheat the soup after freezing?
- Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or green beans. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
6. How can I make this soup spicier?
- Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. Adjust according to your heat preference.
7. Is this soup suitable for a low-sodium diet?
- To make it lower in sodium, use a low-sodium vegetable broth and avoid adding extra salt. You can also use homemade broth if preferred.
8. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can. Add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
9. What can I use instead of butter to keep it dairy-free?
- Substitute the butter with additional olive oil or a dairy-free margarine.
10. How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
- If the soup is too thin, you can blend a portion of it with an immersion blender to thicken it. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the soup, then cook for a few more minutes.