Table of Contents
Nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of homemade lentil soup, especially on a chilly day. It’s nutritious, filling, and easy to make from scratch with simple ingredients. This guide will walk you through the steps to prepare a delicious lentil soup that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or lemon wedges for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by rinsing the lentils thoroughly under cold water. Set aside. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Enjoy Your Homemade Lentil Soup
This hearty lentil soup is perfect as a starter or a main course. It stores well in the fridge for several days and even tastes better the next day. Making it from scratch allows you to enjoy a nutritious, comforting meal anytime. Happy cooking!