Red lentil soup is a delicious, hearty, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Packed with vegetables and flavored with spices, this soup is both comforting and satisfying. It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed as a main course or a starter. Let’s get cooking!
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 25-30 minutes
- Total: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup (~220 g) red lentils (only red!)
- 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
- 1 leek, sliced
- 1 medium-sized carrot, chopped
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp butter
- 1 medium-sized potato, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of cumin
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 liter boiling water or broth
- A small bunch of cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Lemon juice to taste (about 1 tbsp)
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop the potato, carrot, and onion into small pieces.
- Slice the leek.
- Rinse the Lentils:
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat 1-2 tbsp of olive oil and 1 tsp of butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chopped carrot and sliced leek. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add a pinch of cumin and stir well.
- Add the chopped potato and mix thoroughly.
- Cook the Lentils:
- Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot and stir well.
- Pour in 1 liter (approximately 4.2 cups) of boiling water or broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings:
- Stir in 1 tbsp of tomato paste and mix well.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Add chopped cilantro or parsley.
- Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only a part of the soup.
- Finish with Lemon Juice:
- Stir in lemon juice to taste (about 1 tbsp).
- Add a little more olive oil if desired.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional chopped herbs if desired.
- Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this red lentil soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. It also pairs well with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly to remove any debris and reduce foam while cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more spices or herbs as desired.
- If the soup is too thick, you can add more water or broth to reach your preferred consistency.
Nutritional Benefits
Red lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. This soup is not only delicious but also highly nutritious, making it a perfect addition to a balanced diet.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
- Dairy-Free (if you omit the butter)
Storage Tips
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This red lentil soup is easy to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly comforting. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet.
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Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious red lentil soup. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to write in the comments how you liked this recipe. Enjoy your meal!