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 glasses (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: In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
- Add Vegetables: Add the chopped celery, carrot, potatoes, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir well and let cook for 7-10 minutes.
- Add Leek: Mix in the chopped leek and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Stir well to combine.
- Season and Add Lentils: Season with salt and black pepper. Add the lentils and mix well.
- Cook Soup: Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Prepare Bread: While the soup is cooking, prepare the 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!