This Chicken and Lentil Soup is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for any season. Paired with aromatic Garlic Herb Bread, it’s a satisfying combination that will delight your taste buds. This dish is rich in flavors and nutrients, making it a great option for a nourishing lunch or dinner.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 chicken leg with thigh
- Water (enough to fill the pot)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 onion, chopped
- Olive oil (for frying)
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 4 potatoes, chopped
- 150g lentils, rinsed well
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For the Garlic Herb Bread:
- Bread (your choice)
- Dill, chopped
- Parsley, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Spice mix (to taste)
Directions
- Prepare the Soup:
Cook the Chicken:
- Place the chicken leg with thigh in a pot and fill it with water.
- Add salt and bring to a boil.
- Skim off the foam that forms on top.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the meat is done.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and fry until translucent.
- Add the chopped carrot and fry for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the chopped red pepper and fry for another 1-2 minutes.
- Add the chopped tomato, 1 teaspoon of tomato paste, and black pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are tender and well combined.
Combine Ingredients:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Cut the chicken into slices.
- Add the chopped potatoes to the boiling broth.
- Add the rinsed lentils and skim off any foam that forms.
- Let the soup cook over low heat for 10 minutes.
Finish the Soup:
- Add the sliced chicken and the fried vegetables to the pot.
- Add 2 bay leaves and cook the soup for another 3-4 minutes.
- Add fresh parsley and 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Prepare the Garlic Herb Bread:
Prepare the Bread:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place the bread in the oven and bake for 10 minutes.
Make the Garlic Herb Mixture:
- In a bowl, mix together the chopped dill, parsley, 3 minced garlic cloves, olive oil, salt, and spice mix.
Finish the Bread:
- Remove the bread from the oven and spread the garlic herb mixture over the top.
- Serve:
- Serve the hot chicken and lentil soup with the aromatic garlic herb bread on the side.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy this hearty soup with a side of garlic herb bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for added nutrition.
- Top the soup with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess.
Cooking Tips
- Skim the foam off the soup to keep the broth clear and clean.
- Use a mandolin for uniformly thin slices of vegetables.
- Ensure the bread is warm when spreading the garlic herb mixture for better absorption.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken: Provides high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Lentils: Rich in fiber, protein, and iron, supporting digestive and overall health.
- Vegetables: Add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the meal.
Dietary Information
- Contains: Gluten (from the bread), dairy (if using sour cream/yogurt for serving).
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread.
- Dairy-Free: Ensure the bread mixture does not contain dairy products.
Storage
- Soup: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Bread: Store any leftover garlic herb bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Comforting: A perfect meal for cold days or when you need a comforting dish.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe accessible for any home cook.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Lentil Soup with Garlic Herb Bread is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish!
Enjoy your cooking!