This hearty red lentil soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any season. Packed with nutritious vegetables and spiced with a hint of cumin, this soup offers a rich and satisfying flavor. It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight meal or a leisurely weekend lunch. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing main course or a light starter, this red lentil soup is sure to please.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup (~220 g) red lentils
- 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 (approximately 4.2 cups) boiling water or broth
- A small bunch of cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to taste)
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 olive oil and 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, and stir in cumin.
- Add the chopped potato and mix thoroughly.
- Cook the Lentils:
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and stir well.
- Pour in the 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 tomato paste, then 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. For a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup.
- Finish with Lemon Juice:
- Stir in lemon juice to taste and add a little more olive oil if desired.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional chopped herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
- Pair with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.
Cooking Tips
- Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove debris and reduce foam while cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more spices or herbs as desired.
- If the soup is too thick, add more water or broth to reach your preferred consistency.
Nutritional Benefits
- Red Lentils: High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Vegetables: Provide a range of nutrients, including vitamins A and C.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats and antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Yes, if butter is omitted
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 8g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the soup for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This red lentil soup is not only delicious and comforting, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you want something nourishing. The flavors are rich, and it can easily be customized to suit your taste.
Conclusion
Red lentil soup is a nutritious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s flavorful, filling, and loaded with vegetables, making it a healthy choice for the whole family. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side, this soup will quickly become a favorite. Share it with loved ones or savor it yourself—either way, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils?
- Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, and the texture will be different.
- Can I make this soup in advance?
- Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator or freezer and can be reheated when needed.
- What can I use instead of leeks?
- You can substitute leeks with green onions or shallots for a similar flavor.
- Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
- Yes, simply omit the butter or use a plant-based alternative.
- Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
- Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or celery can be added for extra nutrition.
- How can I make this soup spicier?
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give the soup a bit of heat.
- What can I serve with this soup to make it a complete meal?
- Serve it with a side of whole-grain bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Can I use canned lentils?
- Canned lentils can be used, but the texture will be softer, and cooking time will be reduced.
- Can I blend the soup in a regular blender?
- Yes, just be careful when blending hot liquids—blend in batches if necessary.
- Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
- Yes, vegetable broth will add more depth of flavor to the soup.